Gaming device system having partial progressive payout

PRIORITY CLAIM

This application is a continuation-in-part of and claims the benefit of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/769,086, filed Jan. 29, 2004 now U.S. Pat. No. 7,354,342, which is a continuation-in-part of and claims the benefit of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/630,529, filed Jul. 30, 2003, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is related to the following commonly-owned co-pending patent applications: “GAMING DEVICE HAVING A MASKED AWARD GAME,” Ser. No. 10/210,540, and “GAMING DEVICE HAVING AN OFFER AND ACCEPTANCE GAME,” Ser. No. 11/122,719.

COPYRIGHT NOTICE

A portion of the disclosure of this patent document contains or may contain material which is subject to copyright protection. The copyright owner has no objection to the photocopy reproduction by anyone of the patent document or the patent disclosure in exactly the form it appears in the Patent and Trademark Office patent file or records, but otherwise reserves all copyright rights whatsoever.

BACKGROUND

Gaming device manufacturers strive to make gaming devices that provide as much enjoyment and excitement as possible. Providing a secondary or bonus game in which a player has an opportunity to win potentially large awards or credits in addition to the awards associated with the primary or base game of the gaming device is one way to enhance player enjoyment and excitement.

Gaming devices having bonus games generally employ a triggering event that occurs during the base game operation of the gaming device. The triggering event temporarily stalls or halts the base game play and enables a player to enter a second, different game, which is the bonus game. The player plays the bonus game, likely receives an award, and returns to the base game.

To increase player enjoyment and excitement, it is desirable to provide new games including new bonus games.

SUMMARY

One embodiment of the present invention provides a gaming device and in particular a bonus game of a gaming device that enables players to accumulate awards by obtaining sections on an award distributor such as an award wheel based on the coordinates of the sections.

In one embodiment, the award wheel includes several annular areas or groups that are each divided into a plurality of sections. The sections are each defined by first and second coordinates on the award wheel and include award symbols that are associated with awards. The coordinates define the location of each section on the award wheel. Initially, the gaming device alternately illuminates each annular area, which defines the first coordinate of the groups of sections in the annular areas. In one embodiment, the gaming device picks one of the annular areas. In another embodiment, the gaming device enables the player to pick one of the annular areas where the awards associated with the annular areas are approximately equal. Once the first coordinate is defined by selecting one of the annular areas on the award wheel, the gaming device or player activates or spins the award wheel. When the wheel stops spinning, a section indicator indicates a second coordinate which together with the first coordinate, defines the determined section in the annular area. The player receives the award associated with the section that is defined by the indicated first and second coordinates. In one embodiment, the player continues to play the bonus game until the player is out of activations or spins of the award wheel.

In one preferred embodiment, the award wheel is divided into several groups or annular areas where each of the annular areas is further divided into several sections. The first coordinate of a group of sections is represented by the radial distance from the center of the award wheel to the annular area. The second coordinate of one of the sections in the group is defined by the angular location of a section along the annular area. Each section includes a symbol such as an award symbol. A plurality of awards are associated with the award symbols. In one embodiment, the awards associated with the sections in the innermost annular areas of the award wheel are substantially lower awards than the awards associated with the sections located in the outermost annular areas of the wheel. Each annular area is alternately highlighted or illuminated at the start of the bonus game by an illumination device. The annular areas alternately light up, one at a time, until only one area is randomly selected and remains illuminated. In one embodiment, the gaming device (i.e., the processor) determines the indicated annular area. In another embodiment, the gaming device enables the player to pick the annular area as described above. Next, the gaming device or player activates or spins the award wheel. Once the wheel stops spinning, the section indicator indicates one of the sections in the indicated or highlighted annular area. The player receives the award associated with the indicated section. The player continues to play the bonus game until the player has no spins remaining in the game.

In another embodiment, the award wheel first is spun to indicate a pie-shaped area of the wheel. Each pie-shaped section is further divided into individual sections by the annular areas on the wheels. Then, the sections in the indicated pie-shaped area are alternately illuminated until one section is randomly selected and remains illuminated. The player receives the award associated with that selected section.

In a further embodiment, an annular area is illuminated and defines the first coordinate of a group of sections. Then the indicator spins about the perimeter of the award wheel to define the second coordinate of one of the sections in the illuminated annular area. When the indicator stops, the indicated first and second coordinates define the indicated section on the award wheel. The gaming devices provides the player with the award associated with the indicated section defined by the determined first and second coordinates.

In an alternative embodiment of the present invention the sections on the award wheel include a plurality of awards and a plurality of award percentages. Specifically, the award wheel includes a plurality of sections wherein the sections are arranged in a plurality of groups. The groups of sections include a symbol group, which includes the sections in the outermost annular area and a plurality of modifier groups, which include the sections in inner annular areas.

In one embodiment, a plurality of awards, such as award values or credits, are associated with the sections in the symbol group. The awards may include values, multipliers, modifiers, monetary prizes, non-monetary prizes, physical prizes or any suitable type of award. It should be appreciated that any of the annular areas or groups on the award wheel may include sections having one or more awards.

Additionally, a plurality of award portions or award percentages are associated with the sections in the modifier groups. In one embodiment, the modifier groups include award percentages of 100%, 75%, 50% and 25% associated with each of the sections in these groups. The award percentages may be any suitable award percentages desired by the game implementor. In one embodiment, the award percentages associated with the sections in each of the modifier groups are the same. In another embodiment, the award percentages associated with the sections in each of the modifier groups are different. It should be appreciated that at least one of the award percentages, a plurality of the award percentages or all of the award percentages associated with the sections within each of the groups may be different. Additionally, the award percentages associated with the sections may be different from group to group. In one embodiment, the award percentages associated with the sections in the groups increase from the innermost annular area to the outermost annular area. In another embodiment, the award percentages decrease from the innermost modifier group to outermost modifier group. Furthermore, the award percentages may be represented as fractions, decimals or any other suitable type of award portion, fraction or percentage.

In an operational embodiment, the gaming device indicates an award percentage and an award in each activation or spin of the award wheel. The indicated award percentage is multiplied by the or applied to an indicated award in the symbol group to provide an activation or spin award to the player for that activation or spin. For example, when an indicated section includes an award percentage of 75% (0.75), the gaming device provides the player with 75% of the award associated with the indicated section in the symbol group. In other words, the gaming device multiplies the indicated award by 0.75 to provide an activation award to the player for that activation or spin.

In one embodiment, each of the modifier groups are included on the same wheel and rotate in the same direction. In another embodiment, at least one of the modifier groups is included on a separate wheel from the other annular areas. In this embodiment, the wheels may rotate in the same direction or in different directions. In a further embodiment, each of the modifier groups are included on separate wheels. The wheels may rotate in the same direction, at least one may rotate in different directions from the other wheels or a plurality of the wheels may rotate in a different direction. In a further embodiment, the award wheel may also remain stationary and the section indicator may rotate about the perimeter of the award wheel in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction.

The gaming device also includes an additional bonus award such as a big bonus award. In one embodiment, the big bonus award is indicated in the middle of the award wheel includes a masked or hidden award provided to the player by the gaming device when all of the award percentages associated with a particular award are indicated in the game (i.e., in the number of spins of the wheel provided to the player). The big bonus award may be an award value, a modifier, a multiplier, free spins, free games or any other suitable award. The big bonus award is provided to the player in the game or in a subsequent game (i.e, free spins) or added to the player's total award in the game (i.e, an award value or credits).

In another embodiment, the gaming device enables a player to pick or select an annular area or pie-shaped area or segment of the wheel prior to playing the game or initiating the spins of the wheel in the game. It should be appreciated that the gaming device may enable the player to pick one, a plurality or the annular areas and/or pie-shaped segments or areas of the wheel in a game. It should also be appreciated that the gaming device may enable the player to pick the annular area or areas or pie-shaped section or sections prior to playing the game, prior to one spin in the game or prior to a plurality of the spins in the game. In one embodiment, the gaming device enables the player to pick one of the annular areas or pie-shaped sections by pressing or touching the corresponding annular area or pie-shaped section on a touch screen display device or by pressing a button or similar input device which corresponds to the annular area or pie-shaped section on the wheel.

In a further embodiment, the gaming device of the present invention is employed in a progressive type game where a player accumulates indicated sections on the wheel in a plurality of games. In this embodiment, the indicated sections remain highlighted or illuminated for a designated number of games. The designated number of games may be predetermined, randomly determined or determined in any suitable manner. In one aspect of this embodiment, the awards are associated with a probability of being indicated such that the relatively small awards include greater probabilities than the relatively large awards. In this aspect, a significant portion of the relatively small awards are indicated before the relatively large awards are indicated on the wheel. Once the designated number of games are reached, the gaming device resets the award wheel so that none of the sections are indicated (i.e., highlighted) on the wheel. It should be appreciated that the gaming device may reset the award wheel so that none, one, a plurality or all of the sections are highlighted on the wheel.

In another embodiment, a plurality of section indicators are associated with the wheel such that multiple sections are indicated on the wheel in a spin. This enables a player to obtain multiple awards associated with the multiple sections indicated on the wheel in a single spin. In one embodiment, the section indicators associated with the wheel are activated such that only the activated section indicators indicate sections on the wheel. The section indicators may be activated by particular sections on the wheel or based on the number of spins provided to the player in the game. The number of section indicators may also be based on a wager made by the player in the base game or in a bonus game.

In a further embodiment the multiple section indicators are moveable such that the section indicators move about the wheel at the beginning of a game and are stopped or locked in place by the gaming device or the player. The section indicators may move at the beginning of the game, during the game, after one spin or a plurality of the spins of the wheel or at any suitable point in a game. The moveable indicators enable the player to interact with the game and therefore provides additional excitement and enjoyment of the game.

In another embodiment, a time dimension is associated with the present invention to offer enhanced play and awards in the game. In one aspect of this embodiment, a larger award or a plurality of awards are provided to the player when a designated number of sections are indicated in a designated number of spins of the wheel. For example, the gaming device provides a larger award or a bonus award to a player when the player indicates all of the sections associated with one of the awards in a particular number of spins of the award wheel. The gaming device decreases the award for each additional spin or spins needed by the player to indicate those sections.

In another aspect of this embodiment, the gaming device only provides a bonus award when the player indicates a specific section or sections in a designated number of spins. If the sections or sections are indicated after the designated number of spins are reached, the gaming device does not provide a bonus or extra award to the player. It should be appreciated that the designated section or sections may be predetermined, randomly determined or determined according to any suitable determination method.

In a further aspect of this embodiment, a time period is associated with the game such that the gaming device or the player spins the wheel during the time period and indicates sections and accumulates awards associated with those sections during the time period. When the time period expires, the game ends and the player receives the total accumulative award for the game.

In a further embodiment, a display device such as a wheel is structured to display to the player a portion of an available amount, such as an available jackpot amount or progressive amount. The available amount is displayed to the player. The portion of the amount is randomly generated and for example displayed to the player using a suitable display device such as a wheel. The player receives the combination of the available amount and the portion, such as a percentage, fraction or decimal multiplication of the available amount.

In an alternative embodiment, a display device such as a wheel is structured to display to one or more players a portion each player will receive of an available amount, such as an available jackpot amount or progressive amount. The available amount is displayed to the players. The portions for each player of the amount are randomly generated and for example displayed to the players using a suitable display device such as a wheel. Each player receives the combination of the available amount and their portion, such as a percentage, fraction or decimal multiplication of the available amount. It should be appreciated that two or more of the players may receive the same or different amounts.

In any of the embodiments described herein the wheel may be a wheel shared by multiple gaming devices. In connection with providing the player with a portion of the available amount, apportioning symbols, such as percentages, fractions or decimals are displayed by or shown on the shared wheel. The available amount is shown for example on one or more large overhead displays, the shared wheel or at the individual gaming devices.

In one implementation, one of the played gaming devices triggers the bonus and the shared display. The shared wheel displays the determined percentage or portion. In another implementation, the shared display displays the determined type of award provided to the player, such as the apportioned jackpot award or another type of award, e.g., credit or multiplier. If the shared display indicates the apportioned jackpot award, a separate wheel on (i) the triggering gaming device, or (ii) an overhead display displays the determined percentage or portion.

In a further implementation, the shared display performs independent displays of: (i) the type of award (apportioned, multiplier, credits), and (ii) the percentage or portion of the award if the award is an apportioned award.

The amount available to be portioned can be any suitable progressive amount, fixed amount or randomly determined varying amount. Multiple embodiments are described below for providing multiple players an award from a single activation or spin of the shared display or wheel, which can be multiple awards apportioned from the same available amount or one or more apportioned award in combination with a different type of award, such as credits, multipliers and free spins.

Also described herein are multiple embodiments for handling any portion of the available amount not provided to one or more player. For example, the non-provided amount can be used to start a new progressive, fixed or random available amount. Alternatively, such non-provided amount can go to the house but be figured into the overall payout equation to benefit the players.

The present invention may be employed in a primary or base game or, a secondary or bonus game or any suitable type of game such as poker, blackjack, roulette, dice, slots, multi-line slots or any other suitable wagering game.

It is therefore an advantage of the present invention to provide a gaming device having a multi-coordinate wheel with an alternating bonus award where awards and award percentages are associated with multi-coordinate locations on the award wheel.

Other objects, features and advantages of the invention will be apparent from the following detailed disclosure, taken in conjunction with the accompanying sheets of drawings, wherein like numerals refer to like parts, elements, components, steps and processes.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1A</figref> is a front perspective view of one embodiment of the gaming device of the present invention which includes a mechanical multi-coordinate award wheel.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1B</figref> is a front perspective view of another embodiment of the gaming device of the present invention which includes a multi-coordinate award wheel in a video format.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2</figref> is a schematic block diagram of the electronic configuration of one embodiment of the gaming device of the present invention.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref> is an enlarged elevation view of a display device illustrating one embodiment of the present invention.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 4A</figref>, <b>4</b>B, <b>4</b>C <b>4</b>D, <b>4</b>E and <b>4</b>F are enlarged elevation views of a display device of the present invention illustrating three spins of the multi-coordinate award wheel in the bonus game.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 5</figref> is an enlarged elevation view of another embodiment of the present invention where the section indicator moves about the perimeter of the multi-coordinate award wheel.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 6</figref> is an enlarged elevation view of a further embodiment of the present invention where the multi-coordinate award wheel includes a terminator.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 7</figref> is an enlarged elevation view of a further embodiment of the present invention where the multi-coordinate award wheel is stationary and the sections alternately illuminate to provide an award to the player.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 8</figref> is an enlarged elevation view of a further embodiment of the present invention where the sections are arranged in a square configuration.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 9</figref> is an enlarged elevation view of an alternative embodiment of the present invention where the sections of the wheel include awards and percentages of those awards.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 10A</figref>, <b>10</b>B, <b>10</b>C, <b>10</b>D, <b>10</b>E, <b>10</b>F, <b>10</b>G, <b>10</b>H, <b>10</b>I, <b>10</b>J, <b>10</b>K, <b>10</b>L and <b>10</b>M are enlarged elevation views of an example of the alternative embodiment of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 9</figref>.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 11</figref> is an enlarged elevation view of another alternative embodiment of the present invention where the sections includes multipliers and percentages of those multipliers.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 12</figref> is an enlarged elevation view of a further alternative embodiment of the present invention where the sections include awards, percentages of those awards, and letters which form a prize or prizes.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 13</figref> is an enlarged elevation view of another alternative embodiment of the present invention where the sections of the wheel include awards and different award percentages.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 14</figref> is an enlarged elevation view of still a further alternative embodiment, wherein sections of the wheel include portions of an available amount.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 15</figref> is a top plan view of one embodiment of a system including multiple gaming devices and a shared outcome display having percentages corresponding to portions of an available amount.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 16</figref> is a top plan view of another embodiment of a system having multiple gaming devices and a shared outcome display configured to choose which of the gaming devices receives all or a portion of an available amount.

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 17</figref> is a top plan view of a further embodiment of a system having multiple gaming devices and a shared outcome display, which is configured to indicate a portion of an available amount that can be provided to a player and symbols indicating which of the plurality of gaming devices receives the portion of the available amount.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Gaming Device and Electronics

Referring now to the drawings, two embodiments of the gaming device of the present invention are illustrated in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 1A and 1B</figref> as gaming device <b>10</b><i>a </i>and gaming device <b>10</b><i>l</i>, respectively. Gaming device <b>10</b><i>a </i>and/or gaming device <b>10</b><i>l </i>are generally referred to herein as gaming device <b>10</b>. Gaming device <b>10</b> is preferably a slot machine having the controls, displays and features of a conventional slot machine. It is constructed so that a player can operate it while standing or sitting, and gaming device <b>10</b> is preferably mounted on a console. However, it should be appreciated that gaming device <b>10</b> can be constructed as a pub-style table-top game (not shown) which a player can operate preferably while sitting. Furthermore, gaming device <b>10</b> can be constructed with varying cabinet and display designs, as illustrated by the designs shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 1A and 1B</figref>. Gaming device <b>10</b> can also be implemented as a program code stored in a detachable cartridge for operating a hand-held video game device. Also, gaming device <b>10</b> can be implemented as a program code stored on a disk or other memory device which a player can use in a desktop or laptop personal computer or other computerized platform.

Gaming device <b>10</b> can incorporate any primary game such as slot, black jack, poker or keno, any of the bonus triggering events and any of the bonus round games. The symbols and indicia used on and in gaming device <b>10</b> may be in mechanical, electrical, electronic or video form.

As illustrated in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 1A and 1B</figref>, gaming device <b>10</b> includes a coin slot <b>12</b> and bill acceptor <b>14</b> where the player inserts money, coins or tokens. The player can place coins in the coin slot <b>12</b> or paper money or ticket vouchers in the bill acceptor <b>14</b>. Other devices could be used for accepting payment such as readers or validators for credit cards or debit cards. When a player inserts money in gaming device <b>10</b>, a number of credits corresponding to the amount deposited is shown in a credit display <b>16</b>. After depositing the appropriate amount of money, a player can begin the game by pulling arm <b>18</b> or pushing play button <b>20</b>. Play button <b>20</b> can be any play activator used by the player which starts any game or sequence of events in the gaming device.

As shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 1A and 1B</figref>, gaming device <b>10</b> also includes a bet display <b>22</b> and a bet one button <b>24</b>. The player places a bet by pushing the bet one button <b>24</b>. The player can increase the bet by one credit each time the player pushes the bet one button <b>24</b>. When the player pushes the bet one button <b>24</b>, the number of credits shown in the credit display <b>16</b> decreases by one, and the number of credits shown in the bet display <b>22</b> increases by one.

A player may cash out and thereby receive a number of coins corresponding to the number of remaining credits by pushing a cash out button <b>26</b>. When the player cashes out, the player receives the coins in a coin payout tray <b>28</b>. The gaming device <b>10</b> may employ other payout mechanisms such as credit slips redeemable by a cashier or electronically recordable cards which keep track of the player's credits.

Gaming device <b>10</b> also includes one or more display devices. The embodiment shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1A</figref> includes a central display device <b>30</b> and a mechanical multi-coordinate award wheel <b>100</b> that physically spins in front of a player. The award wheel is divided into a plurality of annular areas <b>102</b> that are further divided into sections <b>104</b> where each section is indicated by a section indicator <b>108</b>. The alternative embodiment shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1B</figref> includes a central display device <b>30</b> as well as an upper display device <b>32</b>. The upper display device <b>32</b> displays the multi-coordinate award wheel <b>100</b> of the present invention in a video format.

Gaming device <b>10</b> in one embodiment preferably displays a plurality of reels <b>34</b> such preferably three to five reels <b>34</b> in mechanical or video form, on one or more of the display devices. A display device can be any viewing surface such as glass, a video monitor or screen, a liquid crystal display or any other display mechanism. If the reels <b>34</b> are in video form, the display device for the video reels <b>34</b> is preferably a video monitor.

Each reel <b>34</b> displays a plurality of indicia such as bells, hearts, fruits, numbers, letters, bars or other images which preferably correspond to a theme associated with the gaming device <b>10</b>. Furthermore, gaming device <b>10</b> preferably includes speakers <b>36</b> for making sounds or playing music.

As illustrated in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2</figref>, the general electronic configuration of gaming device <b>10</b> preferably includes: a processor <b>38</b>; a memory device <b>40</b> for storing program code or other data; a central display device <b>30</b>; an upper display device <b>32</b>; a sound card <b>42</b>; a plurality of speakers <b>36</b>; one or more input devices <b>44</b>; and an optional mechanical multi-coordinate award wheel <b>100</b>. The processor <b>38</b> is preferably a microprocessor or microcontroller-based platform which is capable of displaying images, symbols and other indicia such as images of people, characters, places, things and faces of cards. The memory device <b>40</b> can include random access memory (RAM) <b>46</b> for storing event data or other data generated or used during a particular game. The memory device <b>40</b> can also include read only memory (ROM) <b>48</b> for storing program code which controls the gaming device <b>10</b> so that it plays a particular game in accordance with applicable game rules and pay tables.

As illustrated in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2</figref>, the player preferably uses the input devices <b>44</b>, such as pull arm <b>18</b>, play button <b>20</b>, the bet one button <b>24</b> and the cash out button <b>26</b> to input signals into gaming device <b>10</b>. In certain instances it is preferable to use a touch screen <b>50</b> and an associated touch screen controller <b>52</b> instead of a conventional video monitor display device. Touch screen <b>50</b> and touch screen controller <b>52</b> are connected to a video controller <b>54</b> and processor <b>38</b>. A player can make decisions and input signals into the gaming device <b>10</b> by touching touch screen <b>50</b> at the appropriate places. As further illustrated in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2</figref>, the processor <b>38</b> can be connected to coin slot <b>12</b> or bill acceptor <b>14</b>. The processor <b>38</b> can be programmed to require a player to deposit a certain amount of money in order to start the game.

It should be appreciated that although a processor <b>38</b> and memory device <b>40</b> are preferable implementations of the present invention, the present invention can also be implemented using one or more application-specific integrated circuits (ASIC's) or other hard-wired devices, or using mechanical devices (collectively or alternatively referred to herein as a “processor”). Furthermore, although the processor <b>38</b> and memory device <b>40</b> preferably reside on each gaming device <b>10</b> unit, it is possible to provide some or all of their functions at a central location such as a network server for communication to a playing station such as over a local area network (LAN), wide area network (WAN), Internet connection, microwave link, and the like. The processor <b>38</b> and memory device <b>40</b> is generally referred to herein as the “computer” or “controller.”

With reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 1A</figref>, <b>1</b>B and <b>2</b>, to operate the gaming device <b>10</b> in one embodiment the player must insert the appropriate amount of money or tokens at coin slot <b>12</b> or bill acceptor <b>14</b> and then pull the arm <b>18</b> or push the play button <b>20</b>. The reels <b>34</b> will then begin to spin. Eventually, the reels <b>34</b> will come to a stop. As long as the player has credits remaining, the player can spin the reels <b>34</b> again. Depending upon where the reels <b>34</b> stop, the player may or may not win additional credits.

In addition to winning credits in this manner, gaming device <b>10</b> also gives players the opportunity to win credits in a bonus round. This type of gaming device <b>10</b> will include a program which will automatically begin a bonus round when the player has achieved a qualifying condition in the game. This qualifying condition can be a particular arrangement of indicia on a display device. The gaming device <b>10</b> preferably uses a video-based central display device <b>30</b> to enable the player to play the bonus round. Preferably, the qualifying condition is a predetermined combination of indicia appearing on one or more of a plurality of the reels <b>34</b>. As illustrated in the five reel slot game shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 1A and 1B</figref>, the qualifying condition could be the number seven appearing on three adjacent reels <b>34</b> along a payline <b>56</b>. It should be appreciated that the present invention can include one or more paylines, such as payline <b>56</b>, wherein the paylines can be horizontal, diagonal or any combination thereof.

Bonus Game

Referring to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref>, the gaming device <b>10</b> includes an award distributor such as a multi-coordinate award wheel <b>100</b>. In one embodiment, the award wheel <b>100</b> is displayed on a video display device such as display device <b>32</b> in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1B</figref>. In another embodiment, the award wheel is a mechanical wheel that is physically attached to the gaming device. The award wheel <b>100</b> is divided into multiple annular areas <b>102</b> where any suitable number of annular areas may be employed by the game implementor. Each annular area <b>102</b> is divided into a plurality of sections <b>104</b>. An award <b>106</b> or award symbol is associated with each section <b>104</b>. In one embodiment, a bonus number of credits is associated with each award symbol. However, it should be appreciated that an award does not have to be associated with each section and that a multiplier, zero award, negative award or other type of modifier may be associated with one or more awards or award symbols on the award wheel.

In operation, the multi-coordinate award wheel alternately illuminates the annular areas <b>102</b><i>a </i>to <b>102</b><i>c</i>. In one embodiment, the gaming device randomly stops on one annular area <b>102</b><i>a</i>, <b>102</b><i>b</i>, <b>102</b><i>c</i>. In another embodiment, a player presses a button or similar input to select an annular area. Once an annular area is determined or selected, the award wheel spins or rotates in a clockwise direction as shown by arrow <b>110</b> to indicate a section <b>104</b>. It should be appreciated that the award wheel can also spin in a counter-clockwise direction if desired. It should also be appreciated that the award wheel and sections thereof may be different shapes and sizes.

A section indicator <b>108</b> is positioned adjacent to the outer edge of the award wheel <b>100</b>. The indicator <b>108</b> indicates or points to one of the sections <b>104</b> of the award wheel. In <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref>, the section indicator <b>104</b> is an arrow-shaped component that is positioned along the outer edge of the award wheel <b>100</b>. It should be appreciated that the section indicator may also include an illumination device that lights up or highlights a section <b>104</b> similar to how the annular sections <b>102</b><i>a </i>to <b>102</b><i>c </i>are highlighted. An illumination device may be associated with each section or with all of the sections. It should also be appreciated that the award wheel may be stationary and the section indicator may move around the perimeter of the wheel. Alternatively, both the award wheel and the indicator may move at different rates, or in different directions or at different rates in different directions.

The gaming device preferably includes a spin remaining display <b>112</b> and a total award display <b>114</b>. The spin remaining display <b>112</b> indicates the number of spins that are remaining in a game. The total award display <b>114</b> indicates the value of the bonus awards that the player has accumulated during the bonus game. When the player runs out of spins, the bonus award identified in the total award display <b>114</b> is transferred to the player's credit display in a conventional manner.

Referring now to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 4A through 4F</figref>, an example of one embodiment of the present invention is illustrated where the gaming device provides a player with three spins to start the bonus game. In this example, the multi-coordinate award wheel <b>100</b> has three annular areas <b>102</b><i>a</i>, <b>102</b><i>b</i>, <b>102</b><i>c</i>, and several sections <b>104</b> that include awards <b>106</b>.

Referring to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 4A</figref>, the gaming device displays several sections <b>104</b> on an award wheel <b>100</b>, where each section has a coordinate location on the award wheel <b>100</b>. In this example, the coordinate location of each section is defined by a radial coordinate and an angular coordinate. The radial coordinate defines a sections' radial distance from the center of the award wheel or the annular area <b>102</b> that contains the section. The angular coordinate defines the location of the section along the perimeter of the award wheel. It should be appreciated that the coordinates of a section may be predefined or randomly determined by the processor. It should also be appreciated that the coordinates may be any coordinates defined by the game implementor.

At the start of the bonus game, the gaming device alternately illuminates the annular areas <b>102</b><i>a </i>to <b>102</b><i>c</i>. The areas illuminate one at a time where area <b>102</b><i>a </i>illuminates first, followed by area <b>102</b><i>b </i>and <b>102</b><i>c</i>. The gaming device repeats this sequence until a radial coordinate or annular area <b>102</b> is determined. It should be appreciated that the areas <b>102</b> may illuminate in any order or sequence desired by the game implementor. The gaming device stops alternately illuminating the areas after determining the radial coordinate of a section. In another embodiment, a player input determines the radial coordinate.

After the radial coordinate is identified or indicated, the gaming device spins the award wheel <b>100</b> to determine the angular coordinate of the award section. It should be appreciated that the player may physically spin the award wheel <b>100</b> to determine the angular coordinate of the award section. The gaming device spins the award wheel <b>100</b> in a clockwise direction as shown by arrow <b>110</b>. After the award wheel <b>100</b> stops spinning, the symbol indicator <b>108</b> indicates a section <b>104</b>, which is defined by the radial coordinate and the angular coordinate of the section. The gaming device provides an award <b>106</b> associated with the indicated section <b>104</b>. The award is transferred to the total award display <b>114</b> and the gaming device or player spins the award wheel <b>100</b> again if the player has spins remaining in the game as indicated by spins remaining display <b>112</b>.

In <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 4A</figref>, the gaming device alternately illuminates the annular areas <b>102</b>, and stops on annular area <b>102</b><i>c </i>or the innermost annular area of the multi-coordinate award wheel <b>100</b>. Referring to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 4B</figref>, the gaming device spins the award wheel in a clockwise direction to determine the angular coordinate of a section included in the annular area <b>102</b><i>c</i>. The section indicator <b>108</b> indicates section <b>116</b> in annular area <b>102</b><i>c</i>. An award of five is associated with section <b>116</b> and this award is transferred to the total award display as indicated by display <b>114</b>. The player has two spins remaining in the bonus game.

Referring now to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 4C</figref>, the gaming device alternately illuminates the annular areas <b>102</b><i>a</i>, <b>102</b><i>b </i>and <b>102</b><i>c </i>again. A radial coordinate or annular area <b>102</b> is determined by the gaming device, which is annular area <b>102</b><i>a</i>. Annular area <b>102</b><i>a </i>remains illuminated while the gaming device spins the award wheel <b>100</b>. In <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 4D</figref>, the award wheel stops spinning and the section indicator <b>108</b> indicates a section in the annular area <b>102</b><i>a</i>. Section <b>108</b> is indicated by the indicator and the player receives an award of eighty associated with that section. The award, eighty, is transferred and added to the award indicated by the total award display <b>114</b> to give the player a new total award of eighty-five. The player has one spin remaining in the bonus game as indicated by spins remaining display <b>112</b>.

Referring now to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 4E</figref>, the gaming device alternately illuminates the annular areas <b>102</b> until selecting area <b>102</b><i>c</i>. Annular area <b>102</b><i>c </i>remains illuminated and the gaming device spins the award wheel <b>100</b>. In <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 4F</figref>, once the award wheel stops, the section indicator <b>108</b> indicates section <b>120</b>. An award of ten associated with section <b>120</b> is transferred and added to the total award displayed in the total award display <b>114</b>. The new total award equals ninety-five as indicated by the total award display <b>114</b>. The player does not have any spins remaining as indicated by spin display <b>112</b> and therefore, the bonus game ends.

Referring now to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 5</figref>, another embodiment of the present invention is illustrated where the multi-coordinate award wheel is stationary and the section indicator <b>108</b> moves in a clockwise direction along the perimeter of the award wheel. In this embodiment, the section indicator <b>108</b> may move in a clockwise or counter clockwise direction to indicate a section <b>104</b>.

Referring to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 6</figref>, another embodiment of the present invention includes one or more terminators <b>122</b>, where the terminator is represented by the letter “X.” If a player obtains a section associated with a terminator, the bonus game ends regardless of how many spins remain in the game. In this embodiment, the player attempts to obtain as many awards as possible before obtaining a terminator or running out of spins. It should be appreciated that a section including a terminator may be associated with a probability such that the coordinates of that section are more likely to be selected by the gaming device than the coordinates of a section associated with an award.

Because there are several different sections <b>104</b> including a plurality of awards <b>106</b> and one terminator <b>122</b>, the coordinates are preferably associated with probabilities or weighted such that one coordinate is more likely to be indicated by the processor or indicator than another coordinate. In one embodiment, the coordinates are equally weighted or associated with equal probabilities. For example, if an award wheel has twenty-one sections, there are forty-two coordinates associated with those sections. A player, therefore, has a 1/42 or approximately 2.38% chance of obtaining any one of the coordinates. Therefore in this embodiment, a player's chances of obtaining the coordinates associated with a particular award are equal to their chances of obtaining the coordinates of the terminator.

In another embodiment, the probabilities change after each spin of the award wheel. Coordinates on the award wheel start a bonus game having predetermined probabilities and then the probabilities change after each spin by a player. For example, assume that at the beginning of a bonus game the player has a 2.38% chance of obtaining any coordinate on an award wheel having twenty-one sections. After the player's first spin, the player receives an award. Now the processor alters the probabilities so that the player has a 5% chance of obtaining each coordinate associated with the terminator and a 2.25% chance of obtaining a coordinate associated with any other section on the wheel. Thereafter, the probabilities continue to change after each subsequent spin by the player. It should appreciated that the probability of obtaining the coordinates associated with the terminator may decrease and the probabilities of obtaining the coordinates associated with the awards may increase after a spin, or the awards and terminator may alternately increase and decrease after each spin or change according to whatever probability scheme is desired by the game implementor. It should also be appreciated that the coordinate probabilities may change after the first spin only and remain the same the rest of the bonus game or change after any number of spins desired.

In another embodiment, the coordinate probabilities change after a predetermined number of spins of the award wheel. In this embodiment, the implementor sets the probabilities to change after a certain number of spins so that a coordinate having a terminator is more likely or a coordinate associated with a section having a large award is less likely the further the player goes into a bonus game. By adjusting the coordinate probabilities in this manner, the game implementor limits the award amounts that the gaming device pays to players. It also limits the likelihood that a player will obtain the one substantially large award on a spin of the award wheel.

For example, assume that an award wheel has twenty sections and a player starts the bonus game with a 2.5% probability of obtaining each coordinate on the wheel. Before the fourth spin of the award wheel, the coordinate probabilities are programmed to change so that there is a 10% chance of obtaining each coordinate associated with the terminator and approximately a 2.11% chance of obtaining each coordinate associated with a section. Now the player is more likely to obtain a terminator with each subsequent spin than any single award associated with a section.

Similarly, a bonus game could be programmed to decrease the probability of obtaining coordinates associated with a large award section after a certain number of spins. Therefore, a player still has the possibility of obtaining the large award, but the probability is less. For example, an award wheel having twenty-one sections, including one terminator and one large award section, starts a bonus game where a player has an equal probability of approximately 2.38% of obtaining each coordinate on the award wheel. The gaming device is programmed to decrease the probability of obtaining each coordinate of the large award section after five spins to 0.25%. Therefore after five successful spins of the award wheel, the probability of obtaining each coordinate of the large award section decreases to 0.25% and the probabilities of obtaining any one of the other coordinates associated with the other sections increases to 2.49%.

In a further embodiment, total awards or award payouts in a bonus game are associated with probabilities. In this embodiment, the processor of the gaming device is programmed so that relatively larger awards are less likely than relatively smaller awards, or vice versa, in a bonus game. Therefore the game implementor controls the award amounts that are paid out by the gaming device without affecting the player's excitement and enjoyment of playing the game. For example, a processor is programmed to award values of zero through fifty in 60% of the bonus games, 51 through 100 in 30% of the bonus games and over 100 in only 10% of the bonus games in a particular gaming device. Based on the probabilities, the processor picks a total award value for the bonus game and subsequently determines the number of spins and the award amounts for each spin for the game. Thus, the total award is predetermined before the game ever starts, yet the player plays the bonus game as if the award is still to be determined.

In yet another embodiment, each section is associated with a probability such that one section is more likely to be indicated than another section on the award wheel. For example, sections including large value awards have a lower probability of being indicated by the indicator than sections including relatively lower valued awards.

In each of the above embodiments, the players always have an opportunity or chance to obtain each section on the award wheel whether the section includes a terminator or an award. Therefore, although the section probabilities may change in a bonus game, the players maintain their excitement and enjoyment of the bonus game.

Referring now to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 7</figref>, a further embodiment of the present invention where the annular areas <b>102</b> are alternately illuminated until an area is selected by the gaming device. Then the sections <b>104</b> within the selected annular area <b>102</b> are alternately illuminated until a section is selected. For example, the annular area <b>102</b><i>a </i>was selected by the gaming device. Then the gaming device selected section <b>124</b> within annular area <b>102</b><i>a </i>as the section provided to the player. The player receives an award of seventy-five associated with section <b>124</b>.

Referring now to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 8</figref>, another embodiment of the present invention is illustrated where the multi-coordinate award wheel <b>100</b> is a square. The award wheel <b>100</b> may be any shape or configuration as desired by the game implementor. In <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 8</figref>, the award wheel <b>100</b> includes square areas <b>126</b><i>a</i>, <b>126</b><i>b </i>and <b>126</b><i>c</i>. Each area is further divided into sections <b>104</b> that include awards <b>106</b>. The sections each have an X coordinate and a Y-coordinate. An X,Y coordinate defines each of the sections displayed to the player. In operation, the gaming device alternately illuminates square areas <b>126</b><i>a </i>to <b>126</b><i>c </i>one at a time. The gaming device then picks one of the areas. Once an area <b>102</b> is picked, the section indicator <b>108</b> moves along the perimeter of the outside square <b>102</b><i>a </i>until a section is indicated. When the section indicator stops, a section <b>104</b> within the illuminated area <b>126</b> is determined. The award associated with this section is provided to the player and displayed in the total award display <b>114</b>. The player continues to play the bonus game until the player runs out of spins in the bonus game.

In another embodiment of the present invention is illustrated where the award wheel sections <b>104</b> include an annular area <b>102</b> that has several low value awards, an annular area that has medium value awards and a annular area that has several high value awards. The probability of obtaining each low value award is preferably greater than the probability of obtaining the high value awards or the terminator. The award disparity creates enhanced levels of excitement for players because the player may obtain the large award. Additionally, the player is likely to obtain multiple spins in the bonus game because the probability of obtaining a low value award is higher than obtaining the terminator. Thus, each additional spin increases the players excitement and enjoyment of the game because each spin means an additional opportunity to obtain the large award. Even if the player does not obtain the large award, the player still obtains several awards in the bonus game and may accumulate a large award before obtaining a terminator.

It should be appreciated that the terminator symbol could be a blank symbol and that one or more blank symbols could function as terminator symbol or can have no function or other functions. For instance, the occurrence of one or more blank symbols could provide alternative awards.

Referring now to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 9</figref>, an alternative embodiment of the present invention is illustrated where the sections <b>204</b> on the award wheel <b>200</b> include a plurality of awards and a plurality of award percentages. Specifically, the award wheel <b>200</b> includes a plurality of sections <b>202</b>, wherein the sections are arranged in a plurality of groups. The groups of sections include a symbol group, which includes the sections in annular area <b>203</b><i>a</i>, and a plurality of modifier groups, which include the sections in annular areas <b>203</b><i>b</i>, <b>203</b><i>c</i>, <b>203</b><i>d </i>and <b>203</b><i>e</i>. It should be appreciated that although the groups in this embodiment include the sections in the annular areas on the award wheel <b>200</b>, the groups may include any suitable number of sections or arrangement of sections.

In one embodiment, a plurality of awards, such as award values or credits, are associated with the sections in the symbol group or annular area <b>203</b><i>a</i>. The awards may include values, multipliers, modifiers, monetary prizes, non-monetary prizes, physical prizes or any suitable type of award. It should also be appreciated that any of the annular areas or groups on the award wheel <b>200</b> may include sections having one or more awards.

A plurality of award portions or award percentages <b>206</b> are associated with the sections in the modifier groups or annular areas <b>203</b><i>b</i>, <b>203</b><i>c</i>, <b>203</b><i>d </i>and <b>203</b><i>e</i>. In this embodiment, modifier group or annular area <b>203</b><i>b </i>includes award percentages of 100% associated with each of the sections in this group. Modifier group or annular area <b>203</b><i>c </i>includes award percentages of 75% associated with each of the sections in the group. Modifier group or annular area <b>203</b><i>d </i>includes award percentages of 50% associated with each of the sections in the group. Additionally, modifier group or annular area <b>203</b><i>e </i>includes award percentages of 25% associated with each of the sections in this group. It should be appreciated that the award percentages may be any suitable award percentage desired by the game implementor. In one embodiment, as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 9</figref>, the award percentages associated with the sections in each of the modifier groups are the same. In another embodiment, the award percentages associated with the sections in each of the modifier groups are different. It should be appreciated that at least one of the award percentages, a plurality of the award percentages or all of the award percentages associated with the sections within each of the groups may be different. Additionally, the award percentages associated with the sections may be different from group to group. For example, as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 9</figref>, the award percentages associated with modifier group <b>203</b><i>e </i>are less than the award percentages associated with modifier group <b>203</b><i>d</i>. Similarly, the award percentages associated with modifier groups <b>203</b><i>c </i>and <b>203</b><i>b </i>incrementally increase. It should be appreciated that the award percentages associated with the sections in the groups may increase from the innermost annular area or modifier group <b>203</b><i>e </i>to the outermost annular area or group <b>203</b><i>b</i>. The award percentages may also decrease from modifier group or annular area <b>203</b><i>e </i>to modifier group or annular area <b>203</b><i>b</i>. It should be appreciated that any suitable award percentages may be associated with the sections in each of the modifier groups. Furthermore, the award percentages in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 9</figref> are shown as percentages or percentage values. However, the award percentages may be represented as fractions, decimals or any other suitable type of award portion, fraction or percentage.

As will be explained below, the gaming device indicates an award percentage and an award in each activation or spin of the award wheel <b>200</b>. The indicated award percentage is multiplied by the or applied to an indicated award in the symbol group to provide an activation or spin award to the player for that activation or spin. For example, when an indicated section includes an award percentage of 25% (0.25), the gaming device provides the player with 25% of the award associated with the indicated section in the symbol group. In other words, the gaming device multiplies the indicated award by 0.25 to provide an activation award to the player for that activation or spin. Similarly, the gaming device provides 50%, 75%, and 100% of the indicated awards when each of those award percentages are indicated on the award wheel.

In one embodiment, each of the modifier groups or annular areas <b>203</b><i>a</i>, <b>203</b><i>b</i>, <b>203</b><i>c</i>, <b>203</b><i>d </i>and <b>203</b><i>e </i>are included on the same wheel and rotate in the same direction. In another embodiment, at least one of the modifier groups or annular areas <b>203</b> is included on a separate wheel from the other annular areas. In this embodiment, the wheels may rotate in the same direction or in different directions. In a further embodiment, each of the modifier groups or annular areas <b>203</b> are included on separate wheels. The wheels may rotate in the same direction, at least one may rotate in different directions from the other wheels or a plurality of the wheels may rotate in a different direction. It should be appreciated that the modifier groups <b>203</b> may be included on the same or different wheels and rotate in any suitable direction desired by the game implementor. It should also be appreciated that the award wheel <b>200</b> may be stationary and the section indicator <b>208</b> may rotate about the perimeter of the award wheel in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction.

The gaming device also includes a bonus award such as a big bonus award <b>207</b>. In one embodiment, the gaming device provides a player with the big bonus award <b>207</b> when the player accumulates all of the sections associated with an award (i.e., each of the sections associated with an award are indicated or illuminated in the game). It should be appreciated that the big bonus award may be provided to the player based on any suitable number of indicated sections in the game, or other combinations of indicated sections in the game. The big bonus award <b>207</b> indicated in the middle of the award wheel <b>200</b> includes a masked or hidden award that is provided to the player by the gaming device when all of the award percentages associated with a particular award indicated in the game (i.e, in the number of spins of the wheel provided to the player). It should be appreciated that the big bonus award may be provided to the player when a designated number of sections in an annular area, a plurality of annular areas, a pie-shaped section, a plurality pie shaped sections, or any other suitable section or area on the wheel are indicated in a game. The big bonus award may be an award value, a modifier, a multiplier, free spins, free games or any other suitable award. The big bonus award <b>207</b> is provided to the player in the game or in a subsequent game (i.e, free spins) or added to the player's total award in the game (i.e, an award value or credits). It should be appreciated that the big bonus award <b>207</b> may be masked or displayed to the player in the game.

Additionally, a spins remaining display <b>210</b> indicates the number of spins remaining in the game. A spin award display <b>212</b> (or activation award display) and a total award display <b>214</b> indicate the award associated with a particular activation or spin in the game and the total accumulated award provided to the player in the game, respectively.

Referring to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 10A to 10M</figref>, an example of the embodiment of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 9</figref> is illustrated where the gaming device provides a player with six activations or spins at the beginning of the game. Also, the player's total award is zero as indicated by the total award display <b>214</b>. In this example, the award wheel <b>200</b> includes a plurality of sections <b>202</b>. The sections are included in a plurality of groups on the wheel. The groups include a symbol group or annular area <b>203</b><i>a </i>and a plurality of modifier groups or annular areas <b>203</b><i>b</i>, <b>203</b><i>c</i>, <b>203</b><i>d </i>and <b>203</b><i>e</i>. A plurality of awards <b>204</b> are associated with the sections of the symbol group <b>203</b><i>a </i>and a plurality of award percentages <b>206</b> are associated with the sections in modifier groups <b>203</b><i>b</i>, <b>203</b><i>c</i>, <b>203</b><i>d</i>, and <b>203</b><i>e</i>. It should be appreciated that the sections in the modifier groups <b>203</b><i>b</i>, <b>203</b><i>c</i>, <b>203</b><i>d </i>and <b>203</b><i>e </i>may also include fixed amounts such as fixed awards which increase in value from annular area <b>203</b><i>e </i>to annular area <b>203</b><i>a</i>, decrease in value from annular area <b>203</b><i>e </i>to annular area <b>203</b><i>a </i>or include any suitable fixed amounts or awards. In this example, the award wheel is a single award wheel including all of the groups of sections or annular areas <b>203</b>. The wheel rotates or spins in a clockwise direction as indicated by the arrow <b>209</b>.

Referring to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 10B</figref> initially, the gaming device and processor alternately illuminate each of the groups of sections or annular areas <b>203</b> on the award wheel <b>200</b>. For example, all of the sections and symbol group <b>203</b><i>a </i>are highlighted or illuminated and then all the sections in modifier group <b>203</b><i>b </i>are highlighted or illuminated and each subsequent group is then highlighted or illuminated. The indicated modifier group remains highlighted or illuminated until the section indicator <b>208</b> indicates one of the sections in that group. This illumination pattern repeats until the processor picks one or stops on one of the groups or annular areas. It should be appreciated that the groups or annular areas <b>203</b> may be highlighted or illuminated in any order or sequence. It should also be appreciated that one or more of the groups or annular areas <b>203</b> may be simultaneously highlighted or illuminated during the game. Additionally, it should be appreciated that the gaming device may not include a section indicator <b>208</b> and therefore indicates the sections on the wheel by illuminating an annular area and then subsequently illuminating a section in the indicated annular area. The sections may also be indicated by raising or lowering the indicated sections on the wheel such as on a mechanical wheel. The raising and lowering of the sections to indicate the sections on the wheel may also be accomplished in a video-type wheel where a three dimensional virtual wheel is displayed to the player. On a video wheel, the individual sections would rise or move upwards to indicate the indicated section on the wheel in a spin. It should be appreciated that one section, a plurality of the sections or all the sections may raise and/or lower simultaneously or alternately in a spin or plurality of spins in a game. As described above, the present invention may employ a mechanical or electrical mechanical wheel, an electronic wheel or a video wheel displayed on a display device.

In <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 10B</figref>, the gaming device alternately illuminates the modifier groups on the award wheel <b>200</b> until stopping on modifier group <b>203</b><i>e</i>. Award percentages of 25% are associated with each of the sections in the indicated modifier group <b>203</b><i>e</i>. After the group is indicated, the gaming device or player activates or spins the award wheel <b>200</b> in a clockwise direction as shown by arrow <b>209</b> to indicate one of the sections in the highlighted or indicated modifier group <b>203</b><i>e</i>. In this example, the gaming device spins the award wheel <b>200</b> and the section indicator <b>208</b> indicates one of the sections in the modifier group and also one of the sections in the symbol group. The award associated with the indicated section in the symbol group <b>203</b><i>a </i>is modified by or multiplied by the award percentage associated with the indicated section in the indicated modifier group. Referring to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 10C</figref>, the section indicator <b>208</b> indicates one of the sections in the symbol group <b>203</b><i>a </i>having an associated award of one hundred and a section in the modifier group <b>203</b><i>a </i>having an award percentage of 25%. Thus, the award of one hundred is multiplied by the indicated award percentage 25% to give a multiplied award of twenty-five. The multiplied award is the activation award or spin award for that spin in the game. In this example, the spin award is twenty-five (100×0.25). Because the total award was zero at the beginning of the game, the player's new total award is twenty-five, as indicated by the total award display <b>214</b>. The player now has five spins remaining as indicated by the spins remaining display <b>210</b>.

In this example, the award percentage associated with the indicated section on the award wheel remains highlighted or indicated in the subsequent spins in the game. This enables a player to accumulate the award percentages in the game and attempt to accumulate all of the award percentages associated with a particular award in the game. By keeping the indicated sections highlighted or illuminated in the game, the gaming device provides a visual indicator of how the player is progressing in the game and also how many more sections the player needs to obtain to achieve an additional award or big bonus award in the game. Thus, the player's enjoyment and excitement increases in the games. If the player accumulates all of the award percentages associated with a particular award, the gaming device provides the player with the big bonus award <b>207</b> as described above. In this example, the gaming device provides an additional award of five hundred for the big bonus award <b>207</b>.

Referring to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 10D</figref>, the gaming device alternately illuminates the modifier group or annular areas <b>203</b> and stops on modifier group <b>203</b><i>d</i>. The modifier group <b>203</b><i>d </i>remains highlighted as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 10C</figref> until the gaming device or player spins the wheel to indicate one of the sections in that group. Modifier group <b>203</b><i>d </i>includes sections having an award percentage of 50% (0.50). Therefore, any award associated with a section indicated by the section indicator <b>208</b> in the symbol group <b>203</b><i>a </i>will be multiplied by 50% or 0.50 to provide the player with a spin award for that spin. As shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 10D</figref>, the award percentage associated with the indicated section remains highlighted as shown by the box or border around that award percentage.

Referring to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 10E</figref>, the gaming device spins the award wheel in a clockwise direction to determine the angular coordinate of a section included in the indicated modifier group or annular area <b>203</b><i>d</i>. In this example, the section indicator <b>208</b> indicates a section in the modifier group <b>203</b><i>d </i>including an award percentage of 25% and a section in the symbol group having an award of twenty. The gaming device therefore multiplies the award of twenty by 50% or 0.50 to provide the player with a spin award of ten (20×0.50) for that spin as indicated by the spin award display <b>212</b>. The award of ten is added to the player's previous total award of twenty-five to provide the player with a new total award of thirty-five as indicated by the total award display <b>214</b>. The player now has four spins remaining in the game as indicated by the spins remaining display <b>210</b>.

Referring to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 10F</figref>, the gaming device alternately illuminates the modifier groups or annular areas <b>203</b> and stops on modifier group <b>203</b><i>d</i>. As in the previous spin, annular area <b>203</b><i>d </i>includes sections having award percentages of 50%. Thus, any award indicated by section indicator <b>208</b> will be multiplied by 50% or 0.50 to provide the player with a spin award in that spin. Referring to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 10G</figref>, the gaming device spins the award wheel <b>200</b> and the section indicator <b>208</b> indicates a section in the symbol group or annular area <b>203</b><i>a </i>having an award of one hundred. This is the second time in the game that the award of one hundred has been indicated and therefore the player now has indicated two of the sections associated with the award of one hundred include the award percentages of 25% and 50%. If the two remaining sections associated with the award of one hundred, including the award percentages of 75% and 100%, are indicated by the section indicator <b>208</b> in this game, the player wins the big bonus <b>207</b>. The gaming device provides the player with a spin award that equals 50% or 0.50 of the indicated award of one hundred. Therefore, the gaming device provides the player with a spin award of fifty (100×0.50) as indicated by the spin award display <b>212</b>. The spin award of fifty is added to the player's total award of thirty-five to provide the player with a new total award of eighty-five as indicated by the total award display <b>214</b>. The player now has three spins remaining in the game as indicated by the spins remaining display <b>210</b>.

Referring to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 10H</figref>, the gaming device alternatively illuminates the modifier groups or annular areas <b>203</b> and selects modifier group <b>203</b><i>c</i>. Modifier group or annular area <b>203</b><i>c </i>remains highlighted until the player spins the award wheel <b>200</b> to indicate a section in this group. Additionally, modifier group <b>203</b><i>c </i>includes sections having award percentages of 75%. Thus, any award indicated by the section indicator <b>208</b> will be multiplied by 75% to provide a spin award to the player for that spin. Referring to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 10I</figref>, the gaming device spins the award wheel <b>200</b> and the section indicator <b>208</b> indicates a section including an award of one hundred. Thus, the gaming device provides the player with 75% (100×0.75) of the indicated award of one hundred or an award of seventy-five (100×0.75). The award of seventy-five (100×0.75) is indicated by the spin award display <b>212</b>. In addition, the award of seventy-five (100×0.75) is added to the player's previous total award and the player now has a new total award of one hundred sixty as indicated by the total award display <b>214</b>. The player now has two spins remaining in the game as indicated by the spins remaining display <b>210</b>.

Referring to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 10J</figref>, the gaming device alternatively illuminates the modifier groups <b>203</b> and selects group <b>203</b><i>c</i>. The sections included in the modifier group or annular area <b>203</b><i>c </i>include award percentages of 75%. The annular area <b>203</b><i>c </i>remains highlighted until the gaming device spins the award wheel <b>200</b> to indicate a section in this group. Referring to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 10K</figref>, the gaming device spins the award wheel <b>200</b> and the section indicator <b>208</b> indicates a section in the symbol group <b>203</b><i>a </i>having an award of ten. Thus, the gaming device multiplies the award of ten by 75% to produce an award of seven and one-half (i.e., 7.5) for that spin. In this example, the gaming device only provides awards having whole numbers or integers and therefore does not provide the player with an award of seven and one-half (i.e., 7.5). Instead, the gaming device rounds the award of seven and one-half (i.e., 7.5) to an award of eight and provides that award to the player for this spin. It should be appreciated however, that the gaming device may round the number up, round the number down, provide the player with the decimal award or any suitable award desired by the game implementor. The spin award of eight is then indicated by the spin award display <b>212</b> and added to the player's previous total award of one hundred sixty. The player's new total award is one hundred sixty-eight, as indicated by the total award display <b>214</b>. The player has one spin remaining in the game as indicated by the spins remaining display <b>210</b>. As shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 10J and 10K</figref>, all the previously indicated sections in the modifier groups on the award wheel <b>200</b> remain highlighted or otherwise indicated to show that these awards were previously indicated in the game. This enables a player to track or see which modifiers or sections the player has obtained and which modifiers the player still needs to indicate to obtain the big bonus award <b>207</b> in the remaining spins in the game.

Referring to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 10L</figref>, the gaming device alternately illuminates the modifier groups or annular areas <b>203</b> and stops on the modifier group <b>203</b><i>b</i>. Modifier group <b>203</b><i>b </i>includes sections having an award percentage of 100%. The gaming device will therefore multiply any awards indicated in the symbol group in this spin by 100% (i.e., provide the entire award to the player). Referring to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 10M</figref>, the gaming device spins the award wheel and the section indicator <b>208</b> indicates a section in symbol group <b>203</b><i>a </i>including an award of one hundred. In this game, the sections including the award percentages of 25%, 50% and 75% have already been indicated by the section indicator <b>208</b> as shown by the boxes or borders surrounding the award percentages associated with those sections. In this spin, the fourth or final section including the award percentage of 100% is indicated by the section indicator in the game. The gaming device therefore provides 100% of the award of one hundred to the player or a spin award of one hundred.

Additionally, because the player indicated all of the sections in the symbol groups <b>203</b> associated with a single award (i.e., the award of one hundred), the gaming device provides the player with the big bonus award <b>207</b> as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 10M</figref>. In this example, the big bonus award <b>207</b> includes an award of five hundred as described above. The big bonus award of five hundred is added to the player's spin award of one hundred to provide the player with a total spin award of six hundred as indicated by the spin award display <b>212</b>. The spin award of six hundred is then added to the player's previous total award of one hundred sixty-eight to provide the player with a new total award of seven hundred sixty-eight as indicated by the total award display <b>214</b>. The player does not have any spins remaining as indicated by the spins remaining display <b>210</b> and therefore, the game ends. The gaming device provides the player with the total award of seven hundred sixty-eight indicated in the total award display <b>214</b> for the game.

Referring to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 11</figref>, another alternative embodiment of the present invention is illustrated where the modifier group or annular area <b>303</b><i>a </i>includes sections having different multipliers. Also, modifier groups <b>303</b><i>b</i>, <b>303</b><i>c</i>, <b>303</b><i>d </i>and <b>303</b><i>e </i>include sections having award percentages. In this embodiment, the gaming device alternatively illuminates the modifier groups or annular areas <b>303</b> until picking one of the groups. The gaming device then spins the award wheel in a clockwise direction as shown by arrow <b>309</b>. The section indicated by the section indicator <b>308</b> in the indicated modifier group is associated with one of the multipliers <b>304</b> in that group. The gaming device then multiplies the multiplier <b>304</b> associated with the indicated section in the highlighted modifier group to provide the player with a multiplier for that spin.

For example, a section in the modifier group <b>303</b><i>e </i>including an award percentage of 25% is indicated by the section indicator <b>308</b> as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 11</figref>. The indicated section is associated with a multiplier of one hundred, which is also indicated by the section indicator <b>308</b>. The multiplier provided to the player for that spin therefore is 25% of the multiplier one hundred, which is a multiplier of 25 or 25×. The multiplier, 25×, is then indicated by the spin award display <b>312</b>. In one embodiment, an award provided to the player in a primary or base game is multiplied by the multiplier indicated by that spin (i.e., 25×). In another embodiment, the gaming device provides a predetermined award in the game such as in a secondary or bonus game, and that award is multiplied by the indicated multiplier in that spin. In this example, the gaming device randomly provided the player with an award of ten for that spin and therefore the award of ten is multiplied by the spin award of 25× to provide the player with a total award of two hundred fifty as indicated by the total award display <b>314</b>. It should be appreciated that the gaming device may accumulate the multipliers obtained in the spins in the game and use the total multiplier to multiply a previous award or a subsequent award in the game. It should also be appreciated that the multipliers indicated in the symbol groups or annular areas <b>303</b><i>a </i>may be any suitable multipliers desired by the game implementor.

Referring to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 12</figref>, a further alternative embodiment of the present invention is illustrated where the award wheel <b>400</b> includes a plurality of groups or annular areas <b>403</b><i>a </i>to <b>403</b><i>e </i>including sections <b>402</b>. In this embodiment, the group or annular area <b>403</b><i>a </i>includes sections having a plurality of awards <b>404</b> and prizes <b>409</b>. The awards may be any suitable type of awards and the prizes <b>409</b> may include any suitable prizes such as a car, a free spin or spins, a boat, cash, or a trip. As described above, a gaming device alternatively illuminates the annular areas <b>403</b><i>a </i>to <b>403</b><i>e </i>to indicate one of the areas in that spin. The gaming device then spins the award wheel <b>400</b> in a clockwise direction as shown by arrow <b>413</b> to indicate one of the sections in the indicated annular area <b>403</b><i>a</i>. If a section including an award percentage <b>406</b> is indicated, the gaming device provides the player with the award associated with the indicated section of the group of sections included in indicated annular area <b>403</b><i>a</i>. The multiplied award is then indicated in the spin award display <b>412</b>.

Each prize <b>409</b> includes sections that have letters <b>410</b> which spell out a word or words associated with the prize. If the player indicates all of the sections (i.e., accumulates all the letters or sections associates with that prize), the gaming device provides the prize to the player in the game. For example, if the player spins the wheel in the game and indicates all of the letters including the blank space associated with the car, the gaming device provides the car to the player. Additionally, if the player indicates all of the sections including all of the award percentages associated with the award, the gaming device provides the player with the big bonus award <b>411</b>. It should be appreciated that the big bonus award <b>411</b> may be provided to the player when the player indicates all the sections associated with one of the awards or one of the prizes. The addition of the prizes to the game increases the excitement and enjoyment of the game for the player. If the player wins one of the prizes, the gaming device indicates the prize in the spin award display <b>412</b>. A receipt or suitable redemption coupon is printed by the gaming device and the player redeems the prize at a remote location or other suitable redemption location.

Referring to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 13</figref>, another alternative embodiment of the present invention is illustrated where the award wheel <b>500</b> includes groups or annular areas <b>503</b><i>a</i>, <b>503</b><i>b</i>, <b>503</b><i>c</i>, <b>503</b><i>d </i>and <b>503</b><i>e</i>. In this embodiment, the groups include sections <b>502</b> having awards and award percentages. The awards <b>504</b> may be any suitable type of awards desired by the game implementor. Each of the annular areas <b>503</b> include separate wheels such that each of the wheels independently rotates with respect to the other wheels. Additionally, each of the sections <b>502</b> associated with the groups <b>503</b><i>b</i>, <b>503</b><i>c</i>, <b>503</b><i>d </i>and <b>503</b><i>e </i>include a plurality of different award percentages. For example, the award percentages associated with group <b>503</b><i>b </i>are different than the award percentages associated with groups <b>503</b><i>c</i>, <b>503</b><i>d </i>and <b>503</b><i>e</i>. In a game therefore, the gaming device alternatively illuminates the groups or wheels <b>503</b> to indicate one of the groups or wheels in that spin. The gaming device then spins one or more of the wheels including the groups to indicate one of the sections in the highlighted or indicated group. The indicated section includes an award percentage <b>506</b>. The section indicator also indicates a section in the symbol group <b>503</b><i>a </i>having an award <b>504</b>. The indicated award <b>504</b> is multiplied by the indicated award percentage <b>506</b> to provide a spin award or multiplied award to the player in that spin. The player then spins the wheel or wheels until there are no spins remaining in the game.

The different award percentages provide an extra level of excitement and enjoyment to a player in a game because the player's award depends on two factors. One factor is the award indicated by the section indicator <b>508</b> in a spin and the second factor is the award percentage indicated in that spin. Also, because the award wheels all independently rotate, it is more difficult to accumulate all of the sections associated with the particular award because one or more of the wheels including the sections are moving in each spin.

In another embodiment, the gaming device enables a player to pick or select an annular area or pie-shaped area or segment of the wheel prior to playing the game or initiating the spins of wheel in the game. It should be appreciated that the gaming device may enable the player to pick one, a plurality or the annular areas and/or pie-shaped segments or areas of the wheel in a game. It should also be appreciated that the gaming device may enable the player to pick the annular area or areas or pie-shaped section or sections prior to playing the game, prior to one spin in the game or prior to a plurality of the spins in the game. For example, a player picks one of the annular areas on the wheel and then spins the wheel. The section indicator indicates one of the sections in the annular area picked by the player and provides the award associated with that section. It should be appreciated that the gaming device may enable the player to pick one of the annular areas or pie-shaped sections by pressing or touching the corresponding annular area or section on a touch screen display device or by pressing a button or similar input device which corresponds to the annular area or pie-shaped section on the wheel.

In a further embodiment, the gaming device of the present invention is employed in a progressive type game where a player accumulates indicated sections on the wheel in the plurality of games. In this embodiment, the indicated sections remain highlighted or illuminated for a designated number of games. The designated number of games may be predetermined, randomly determined or determined in any suitable manner. The progressive accumulation of the indicated sections enables one or more players to be able to accumulate multiple sections in a game or games and also increases the probability that a player will obtain the big bonus award by accumulating all the sections associated with one of the awards in the outer most annular area in a game. In one aspect of this embodiment, the awards are associated with a probability of being indicated such that the relatively small awards include greater probabilities than the relatively large awards. In this aspect, a significant portion of the relatively small awards are indicated before the relatively large awards are indicated on the wheel. This creates excitement and enjoyment of the game because the longer the game is played or the more games that are played, more of the sections of the wheel are illuminated or indicated. Also, as more sections are indicated on the wheel, the awards associated with the non-indicated sections increase to enable players to obtain larger awards in a game or games. Once the designated number of games are reached, the gaming device resets the award wheel so that none of the sections are indicated (i.e., highlighted) on the wheel. It should be appreciated that the gaming device may reset the award wheel so that none, one, a plurality or all of the sections remain highlighted on the wheel.

In another embodiment, a plurality of section indicators are associated with the wheel such that multiple sections are indicated on the wheel in a spin. This enables a player to obtain multiple awards associated with the multiple sections indicated on the wheel in a single spin. In one embodiment, the section indicators associated with the wheel are activated such that only the activated section indicators indicate sections on the wheel. The section indicators may be activated by particular sections on the wheel or based on the number of spins provided to the player in the game. The number of section indicators may also be based on a wager made by the player in the base game or in a bonus game.

In a further embodiment the multiple section indicators are moveable such that the section indicators move about the wheel at the beginning of a game and are stopped or locked in place by the gaming device or the player. The section indicators may move at the beginning of the game, during the game, after one spin or a plurality of the spins of the wheel or at any suitable point in a game. The moveable indicators enable the player to interact with the game and therefore provides additional excitement and enjoyment of the game.

In another embodiment, a time dimension is associated with the present invention to offer enhanced play and awards in the game. In one aspect of this embodiment, a larger award or awards are provided to the player when a designated number of sections are indicated in a designated number of spins of the wheel. For example, the gaming device provides a larger award or a bonus award to a player when the player indicates all of the sections associated with one of the awards in a particular number of spins such as five spins. The gaming device decreases the award for each additional spin or spins needed by the player to indicate those sections.

In another aspect of this embodiment, the gaming device only provides a bonus award when the player indicates a specific section or sections in a designated number of spins. If the section or sections are indicated after the designated number of spins are reached, the gaming device does not provide a bonus or extra award to the player. It should be appreciated that the designated section or sections may be predetermined, randomly determined or determined according to any suitable determination method.

In a further aspect of this embodiment, a time period is associated with the game such that the gaming device or the player spins the wheel during the time period and indicates sections and accumulates awards associated with those sections during the time period. When the time period expires, the game ends and the player receives the total accumulative award for the game.

It should be appreciated that the present invention may be employed in a primary or base game or, a secondary or bonus game or any suitable type of game such as poker, blackjack, roulette, dice, slots, multi-line slots or any other suitable wagering game.

It should also be appreciated that multiple pointers or indicators for simultaneously indicating different sections may be employed in the present invention.

Single and Shared Gaming Devices With Award Apportioning

Referring now to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 14</figref>, a further alternative embodiment of a display device is illustrated by wheel <b>600</b>. Wheel <b>600</b> in alternative embodiments is displayed on a video or electromechanical display device <b>30</b> or <b>32</b> of gaming device <b>10</b>. That is, wheel <b>600</b> can be simulated or electromechanical as described above. Wheel <b>600</b> includes a plurality of sections <b>602</b>. At least some of the sections <b>602</b> have or display an apportioning symbol or indicia <b>604</b>.

As illustrated, apportioning symbols <b>604</b> can be shown in at least three different formats. In one format, apportioning symbol <b>604</b> is shown as a percent, such as 10%, 100%, 5%, 90%, 75%, 50%, 20%, 60%, or 30%, illustrated clockwise on wheel <b>600</b>. Alternatively, apportioning symbol <b>604</b> is shown as a fraction such as 7/10 as seen on wheel <b>600</b>. Further alternatively, apportioning symbol <b>604</b> is shown as a decimal or number less than one as seen by the 0.45 symbol on wheel <b>600</b>. The apportioning symbol could alternatively be displayed in any other suitable manner.

In one embodiment, the wheel <b>600</b> include symbols in addition to the apportioning symbols <b>604</b>. For example, wheel <b>600</b> include any one or more of game credit symbols <b>606</b>, multiplier symbols <b>612</b> and/or free spin symbols <b>616</b>. The primary difference between apportioning symbols <b>604</b> and the additional symbols <b>606</b>, <b>612</b> and <b>616</b> is that apportioning symbols <b>604</b> operate with an available amount shown in display <b>610</b>, while additional symbols <b>606</b> and <b>616</b> operate independently and multiplier symbol <b>612</b> multiplies a number of credits.

Any of the embodiments disclosed above for triggering or activating the above-disclosed wheels are applicable to the triggering and/or activating of the display device such as wheel <b>600</b>. For example, if a player playing a base game of gaming device <b>10</b> receives a designated symbol or symbol combination such as along a played payline, wheel <b>600</b> may be activated automatically or upon one or more prompted inputs from the player. At that point, wheel <b>600</b> spins about axis <b>618</b> clockwise or counterclockwise for a preset or otherwise determined number of rotations and stops eventually. The section <b>602</b> stopping in front of or adjacent to indicator <b>608</b> is used to determine an award provided to the player. If the section <b>602</b> displays one of the apportioning symbols <b>604</b>, the player is provided an award based on or equal to the apportioning symbol multiplied by the available amount shown in meter <b>610</b>.

In the illustrated embodiment, the available amount is two hundred ten credits. The apportioning symbol <b>604</b> that has been generated randomly lands in front of indicator <b>608</b> is 30%. Accordingly, the player's provided award is seventy credits shown in meter <b>614</b>. It should be appreciated that if the apportioning symbol is not evenly divisible into the available amount, gaming device <b>10</b> can be configured to round up or down to the nearest whole credit. Alternatively, gaming device <b>10</b> can be configured to pay the remainder in a denomination that is a fraction of a credit.

The available amount shown in meter <b>610</b> may be determined in any one or more of the following ways. The available amount may be preset or determined randomly, e.g., as an outcome of base or bonus game play. The available amount is alternatively a progressive award, which is built via a collection of a percentage taken from players' wagers. In various alternative embodiments, the progressive awards is for a single gaming machine, is for a plurality of gaming machines in a single casino implemented through a local area network and in a plurality of gaming machines at a plurality casinos implemented through a wide area network. Still further, the available amount may be determined randomly and displayed via wheel <b>600</b>. For example, the independent rotating rings of wheel <b>500</b> may be employed with wheel <b>600</b> and apportioning symbols <b>604</b>, such that one rotating ring displays the apportioning symbol <b>604</b> to be used in combination with the available amount, while a second rotating ring displays the available amount shown in meter <b>610</b>.

Referring now to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 15</figref>, one embodiment of a multi-player system employing any one of the wheel embodiments disclosed herein is shown by system <b>700</b> having a shared wheel <b>710</b>. For ease of illustration, system <b>700</b> is shown using the apportioning symbols <b>604</b> of wheel <b>600</b>. Any of the types of apportioning symbols <b>604</b> (such as percentages, fractions, decimals) may be used with wheel <b>710</b>. Also, any of the different symbols and area or ring arrangements discussed above in connection with wheel <b>100</b>, <b>200</b>, <b>300</b>, <b>400</b> or <b>500</b> may be used in connection with wheel <b>710</b>.

In particular, system <b>700</b> includes a shared outcome display or wheel <b>710</b>, which employs the apportioning symbols <b>604</b>, credit symbols <b>606</b> and multiplier symbols <b>612</b> shown above in connection with wheel <b>600</b>. Credit symbols <b>606</b> and multiplier symbols <b>612</b> are not based on the available amount. Multipliers <b>612</b> can multiply any suitable base game quantity, such as total credits, total credits previously wagered, total credits won, total paylines played, total wager per payline, etc. Although not illustrated, any of the sections <b>712</b><i>a </i>to <b>712</b><i>k </i>of wheel <b>710</b> may display a free spin symbol <b>616</b> shown in connection with wheel <b>600</b>.

As illustrated, wheel <b>710</b> includes eleven sections <b>712</b><i>a </i>to <b>712</b><i>k</i>. A same number of gaming devices <b>10</b><i>a </i>to <b>10</b><i>k </i>is provided in system <b>700</b>. In an alternative embodiment, wheel <b>710</b> includes more sections <b>712</b> (referring collectively to sections <b>712</b><i>a </i>to <b>712</b><i>k</i>) than gaming devices <b>10</b> (referring collectively to gaming devices <b>10</b><i>a </i>to <b>10</b><i>k</i>). Alternatively, wheel <b>710</b> can include less sections <b>712</b> than gaming devices <b>10</b>.

In system <b>700</b>, display <b>710</b> is shared between multiple gaming devices <b>10</b><i>a </i>to <b>10</b><i>k</i>. Various embodiments for multi-player, shared display systems are set forth in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/212,404 (“the '404 application”), entitled “GAMING DEVICE SYSTEM HAVING SHARED MULTI-PLAYER SYMBOL DISPLAY,” filed on Aug. 26, 2005, assigned to the assignee of the present application, the entire contents of which are expressly incorporated herein by reference.

In the illustrated embodiment, wheel <b>710</b> is substantially horizontally disposed with gaming devices <b>10</b><i>a </i>to <b>10</b><i>k </i>spaced in roughly equal increments about shared display <b>710</b>. Overhead displays <b>70</b><i>a </i>to <b>70</b><i>c </i>are located above wheel <b>710</b> and are provided in any suitable number and size so that each of the players system <b>700</b> can see at least one of overhead displays <b>70</b><i>a </i>to <b>70</b><i>c</i>. In an alternative embodiment, wheel <b>710</b> is at least substantially vertically disposed, for example, with a backside against a wall of the gaming establishment. Here, gaming devices may be provided for example in a semicircle about the vertically disposed wheel. In another alternative embodiment, apportioning symbols <b>604</b> and the other types of symbols described herein are provided on a relatively large rotating reel or drum. In such a case a separate indicator can be provided to indicate one of the symbols of the reel or drum.

For reference, each of the constituent gaming devices <b>10</b><i>a </i>to <b>10</b><i>k </i>in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 15</figref> shows coin slot <b>12</b> and bill acceptor <b>14</b> described above. Each gaming device also shows display device <b>30</b>, <b>32</b>, reels <b>34</b> (simulated or electromechanical), credit display <b>16</b>, play button <b>20</b>, bet one button <b>24</b> and cash out button <b>26</b>.

In the illustrated embodiment, gaming devices <b>10</b><i>a </i>to <b>10</b><i>k </i>are of a low-profile type in which a player sits at a seat <b>58</b> to play the gaming device. Such configuration enables shared wheel <b>710</b> to be located closer to the casino floor. Gaming devices <b>10</b> alternatively have any suitable standing or sitting configuration. Any of the wagering games described herein are suitable for system <b>700</b>, such as, slot, poker, keno and/or blackjack.

In the illustrated embodiment, each gaming device <b>10</b><i>a </i>to <b>10</b><i>k </i>includes a combination hand pay/shared display indicator <b>60</b><i>a </i>to <b>60</b><i>k</i>, respectively. Indicators <b>60</b> (referring collectively to indicators <b>60</b><i>a </i>to <b>60</b><i>k</i>) function in one aspect to indicate a player's desire to receive a hand pay or other item from a gaming establishment attendant. In one embodiment of the present invention, indicators <b>60</b> point to or indicate one of the symbols of the sections <b>712</b> displayed on wheel <b>710</b>. Indicators <b>60</b> can be selectively not illuminated, illuminated, flashed on and off or illuminated in combination with audio played from the speakers of the respective gaming device <b>10</b>.

As discussed above, each gaming device <b>10</b><i>a </i>to <b>10</b><i>k </i>includes an individual processor <b>38</b>. In one embodiment, each of the processors <b>38</b> is configured in a client-server communication relationship via a link <b>722</b> with a separate processor or server <b>720</b>. Server <b>720</b> controls via link <b>722</b> the shared wheel <b>710</b> and one or more large overhead displays <b>70</b><i>a </i>to <b>70</b><i>c</i>. Server <b>720</b> communicates information back and forth between the displays <b>70</b> (referring collectively to displays <b>70</b><i>a </i>to <b>70</b><i>k</i>) and gaming devices <b>10</b> and information back and forth between wheel <b>710</b> and gaming devices <b>10</b>.

Link <b>722</b> may be of any type discussed above for gaming device <b>10</b>, such as any type of LAN, WAN, fiber optic network, Ethernet, copper cable or other suitable type of link or network. Via link <b>722</b>, server <b>720</b> can communicate with any of gaming devices <b>10</b><i>a </i>to <b>10</b><i>k </i>for any suitable purpose, such as to update the player's credits on the credit display <b>16</b> or to command an individual game processor <b>38</b> to display a message or indicia on the respective individual monitor or display <b>30</b>, <b>32</b>. Server <b>720</b> also monitors which gaming devices <b>10</b><i>a </i>to <b>10</b><i>k </i>are currently being played. Server <b>720</b> can further be configured for example to: (i) track the amount of coins wagered at any one or more or all of gaming devices <b>10</b>; (ii) track the frequency of play at any one or more of gaming devices <b>10</b>; and (iii) note the base game output of any one or more of gaming devices <b>10</b> (for example, to determine of any constituent gaming device has triggered a bonus involving shared wheel <b>710</b>).

Separate server <b>720</b> runs one or more random outcome generation (“ROG”) programs, which determines the random outcomes displayed by the shared display <b>710</b> in one embodiment. The ROG program is independent of any run by processors <b>38</b> of individual gaming devices <b>10</b> (described in detail in the '404 application).

In an embodiment, server <b>720</b> knows the fixed relationship between each of the symbols of the sections <b>712</b>. In the illustrated example, server <b>720</b> is programmed to know that the 40% apportioning symbol <b>604</b> shown in section <b>712</b><i>d </i>is located one section clockwise from the 90% apportioning symbol <b>604</b> shown in section <b>712</b><i>c</i>, which is located one section clockwise from the 100 credit symbol <b>606</b> shown in section <b>712</b><i>b</i>, which in turn is located one section clockwise from the 10% apportioning symbol <b>604</b> shown in section <b>712</b><i>a</i>, and so on.

It should therefore be appreciated that if server <b>720</b> generates one of the symbols randomly for gaming device <b>10</b><i>a</i>, for example, the fixed relationship between the symbols enables server <b>720</b> to know the symbols generated randomly for gaming devices <b>10</b><i>b </i>to <b>10</b><i>k</i>. That is, if the ROG program of server <b>720</b> generates the 10% apportioning symbol <b>604</b> randomly for gaming device <b>10</b><i>a</i>, the ROG program server <b>720</b> also generates: (i) 100 credits for gaming device <b>10</b><i>b </i>randomly, (ii) the 90% symbol for gaming device <b>10</b><i>c </i>randomly, (iii) the 40% symbol for gaming device <b>10</b><i>d </i>randomly, and (iv) the 70% symbol for gaming device <b>10</b><i>e </i>randomly, and so on.

In operation, one or more triggering event sets wheel <b>710</b> in motion. For example, one of the gaming devices <b>10</b> may trigger a bonus, which causes processor <b>38</b> of that machine <b>10</b> to send a signal via link <b>722</b> to server <b>720</b>. Server <b>720</b> in turn commands wheel <b>710</b> to rotate. Server <b>720</b> in an embodiment also updates overhead displays <b>70</b> to show video and/or audio information informing each of the players playing system <b>700</b> that a bonus has been hit and wheel <b>710</b> is about to rotate. Displays <b>70</b> can inform which of the gaming devices has triggered the bonus. Also, indicator <b>60</b> (referring generally to one of indicators <b>60</b>A to <b>60</b>K) associated with the triggering gaming device can be lit or flashed (as discussed in the '404 application describing overhead display and individual gaming device display interaction in detail).

Assuming gaming device <b>10</b><i>i </i>triggers the bonus, for example, processor <b>38</b> of gaming device <b>10</b><i>i </i>sends a signal along link <b>722</b> to server <b>720</b>. Processor <b>38</b> also causes display device <b>30</b>, <b>32</b> (and/or speakers <b>36</b>) of gaming device <b>10</b><i>i </i>to inform the player of gaming device <b>10</b><i>i </i>that the player has reached the shared wheel bonus. Server <b>720</b> updates overhead displays <b>70</b> and causes a motor or other motion control device located beneath wheel <b>710</b> to rotate the wheel. Wheel <b>710</b> rotates in a predefined or randomly defined manner until it stops. At that point, whichever symbol is located adjacent to indicator <b>60</b><i>i </i>of gaming device <b>10</b><i>i </i>is used to determine, at least in part, the bonus award provided to the player. If the symbol is an apportioning symbol <b>604</b>, server <b>720</b> sends the associated percentage (fraction or decimal) and the currently displayed available amount to processor <b>38</b> of game <b>10</b><i>l</i>, which in turn calculates the player's award and updates credit displays <b>16</b> accordingly. Alternatively, server <b>720</b> calculates the player's award and sends that amount to processor <b>38</b> of gaming device <b>10</b><i>i</i>, which in turn updates credit display <b>16</b>.

In the illustrated embodiment, section <b>712</b><i>i </i>stops in front of gaming device <b>10</b><i>i </i>and its associated indicator <b>60</b><i>i</i>. Section <b>712</b><i>i </i>shows the apportioning symbol <b>604</b> of 80%. That apportioning symbol 80% is multiplied by an available amount (e.g., shown on overhead displays <b>70</b>, shared display <b>710</b> and/or on display devices <b>30</b>, <b>32</b> of gaming devices <b>10</b>) to form an award that is downloaded to gaming device <b>10</b><i>i </i>and updated on the credit meter <b>16</b>. A player can then cash out via button <b>26</b> and retrieve the award or continue playing with its proceeds.

In one embodiment, if a single gaming device <b>10</b><i>a </i>to <b>10</b><i>k </i>triggers the bonus, only that gaming device receives any bonus award. In an alternative embodiment, any two or more or all gaming devices receive a bonus award even though only a single gaming device <b>10</b><i>a </i>to <b>10</b><i>k </i>has triggered the bonus condition. Here, the ability to pay more than one or all of the gaming devices <b>10</b> is made possible by varying the likelihood of triggering the bonus, the available amount and/or the percentages of apportioning symbols <b>604</b>.

The size of the available amount can additionally or alternatively be scaled to meet the payback percentage requirements of system <b>700</b>. For example, the available amount could be a relatively large award, such as $1000, which is apportioned to only one player, or a relatively small award, such as $100, which is apportioned to each active gaming device.

It should be appreciated that the amounts of the percentages, fractions or decimals of apportioning symbols <b>604</b> can additionally or alternatively be scaled to meet the payback percentage requirements of system <b>700</b>. For example, the percentages could add to 450% (as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 15</figref>) when the available amount is apportioned to only one player, or the percentages could add to 100% or less when the available amount is apportioned to multiple players.

In one embodiment, the available amount is a progressive amount, which is built from an initial starting value and an accumulation of small percentages taken from the wagers of the players. The progressive amount keeps building until one of the gaming devices triggers the bonus. Here, the available amount can vary from one bonus to the next. The frequency of hitting the bonus controls the size of the available amount.

If the total possible award provided upon a spin of wheel <b>710</b> is less than or equal to the progressive amount (for example when (i) only the triggering player receives an award and the highest percentage is equal to or less than 100%, or (ii) multiple players win but the total percentage is equal to or less than 100%), then no additional funds are needed to pay for the bonus and bonus trigger hit frequency need not be considered in the overall payback equation.

If the total possible award provided upon a spin of wheel <b>710</b> can possibly be greater than the progressive amount (for example when (i) only the triggering player receives an award and the highest percentage is greater than 100% or (ii) multiple players win and total percentage is potentially greater than 100%), then additional funds may be needed to pay for the bonus.

In one example, a progressive available amount is built by accumulating 1% of each wager, the overall bonus trigger hit frequency is relatively high and the percentages on wheel <b>710</b> add to 100%. Each player or multiple players win a portion of the progressive amount as it exists at the time any of the played gaming device <b>10</b> triggers the bonus. Here, the game is exciting because each player can expect a bonus award after any spin of wheel <b>710</b>.

Regardless of whether the available amount as contemplated herein is: (i) a jackpot award; (ii) a progressive award; (iii) a fixed award; (iv) a randomly determined award; (v) an award determined in a base game played on the gaming device by the player; (vi) an award determined in a bonus game played on the gaming device by the player; (vii) an award displayed by the shared outcome display; and/or (viii) an award determined by a separate processor running the shared outcome display, it is possible that some of the available amount will not be awarded. This can happen for example when: (i) only a single player wins and at least one of the percentages is less than 100%; and (ii) multiple players can win and obtain a total percentage from wheel <b>710</b> adding to less than 100%.

In one embodiment, the portion of the available amount not awarded to one or more player in one progressive embodiment is left in the pool as the starting point for the next progressive available amount. If for example only 70% of a $1000 pool is paid out after a spin of wheel <b>710</b>, the available amount for the next bonus begins at $300.

The portion of the available amount not awarded to one or more player in one fixed amount embodiment is added to the fixed amount for the next available amount. If for example only 70% of a $1000 fixed amount is paid out after a spin of wheel <b>710</b>, the available amount for the next bonus is set at $1300.

The portion of the available amount not awarded to one or more player in one random amount embodiment is added to the randomly determined amount for the next available amount. If for example only 70% of a $1000 randomly determined amount is paid out after a spin of wheel <b>710</b>, the available amount for the next bonus is set at $300 plus whatever amount is randomly determined.

In an alternative embodiment, the house keeps a portion or all of any unused or non-paid portion of the available amount. Here, and in the case in which (i) the available amount is known or randomly determined from a finite set of values and (ii) only the triggering player wins an award, an expected outcome can be determined knowing the average percentage of the apportioning symbols <b>604</b> (and assuming each symbol is equally likely to be generated) and the known or averaged available amount. Knowing the expected amount makes the bonus predictable over time, enabling the bonus to be implemented into the overall payout percentage of system, and potentially enabling higher available amounts and/or higher average percentages for apportioning symbols <b>604</b>. For example, if the average percentage is 60% and the average award is $500.00, than the average expected amount is $300.00, which is taken into account in the paytables.

As discussed previously, in one embodiment multiple players can win a portion of the available amount after one activation of shared display, wherein only portions of the amount generated in connection with active gaming devices are provided to the players. As used herein, active gaming devices may be ones which have a positive credit balance on credit display <b>16</b> or ones which have placed one or more wagers or played one or more base games within the specified period of time, as desired by the game implementers. It may be desirable to prevent players from (i) occupying multiple gaming devices or (ii) funding a gaming machine to carry a balance without playing the machine, in the hopes of increasing bonus award chances or amounts.

In an alternative embodiment, and in a situation in which the percentages collectively are equal to or less than 100%, it is contemplated to distribute any portion of the amount generated for non-active machines to the active machines based on the relative differences in the percentages generated for each of the gaming devices. For example, if the available amount is $1000, active gaming device <b>10</b><i>a </i>obtains 10%, active gaming device <b>10</b><i>d </i>obtains 15%, active gaming device <b>10</b><i>g </i>obtains 10%, active gaming device <b>10</b><i>j </i>obtains 5% and the remaining gaming devices <b>10</b> obtain the remaining 60%, the original available amount $1000 can be increased by dividing it by the total active percentage or 0.4, wherein the available amount now becomes $2500. Now, active gaming device <b>10</b><i>a </i>obtains 10% of $2500 or $250, active gaming device <b>10</b><i>d </i>obtains 15% of $2500 or $375, active gaming device <b>10</b><i>g </i>obtains 10% of $2500 or $250, and active gaming device <b>10</b><i>j </i>obtains 5% of $2500 or $125, totaling $1000. Here, the original available amount is guaranteed to be paid out completely. The percentages may be chosen to eliminate rounding payments or paying in fractions of a coin.

As discussed previously, in one embodiment a single player achieves a bonus triggering symbol in base game play, which triggers the shared display bonus and the spinning of wheel <b>710</b>. It is also possible that multiple players achieve the bonus trigger within a relatively short timeframe. Here, the bonus spinning of wheel <b>710</b> can run consecutively for each player, in which case it is possible for only the triggering player to win an award or for multiple players to win an award.

Alternatively, a single spin of shared wheel <b>710</b> is made to generate an apportioned award for each player who has triggered the bonus. Here, it is preferable that only triggering players receive an apportioned award. The '404 application describes in detail multiple embodiments for enabling two players who trigger the bonus within a relatively short time span to play the same bonus. In general, the embodiments involve a countdown period before the next spin of the shared wheel during which a player may either opt-in or opt-out of the next bonus, depending on the embodiment.

As discussed previously, in one embodiment a player achieves a bonus triggering symbol in base game play, which triggers the shared display bonus and the spinning of wheel <b>710</b>. It is also contemplated to trigger the shared wheel bonus: (i) via a random generation of a triggering condition by server <b>720</b>; (ii) after a specified amount of game play by one or more of the players; and (iii) via a combination of base game results from the gaming devices played by the first and second players.

Depending upon the mode of triggering used, the shared display <b>710</b> may result in apportioned awards for a single player, select multiple players or all active players. For example, a bonus spin of shared display <b>710</b> triggered via a random generation of a triggering condition by server <b>720</b> could result in a bonus award for each active gaming device <b>10</b> since the bonus is not the result of play of any base game. A bonus spin of shared display <b>710</b> triggered via a specified amount of game play by one of the players could result in an award for that player only. A bonus spin of shared display <b>710</b> triggered via a specified amount of game play by multiple players could result in an award for those multiple players or all active players. A bonus spin of shared display <b>710</b> triggered via a combination of base game results from multiple gaming devices could result in an award for those multiple players or all active players.

Referring now to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 16</figref>, another embodiment of a multi-player system employing any one of the wheel embodiments disclosed herein is shown by system <b>800</b> having a shared wheel <b>810</b>. For ease of illustration, system <b>800</b> is shown using the apportioning symbols <b>604</b> of wheel <b>600</b>. Any of the types of apportioning symbols <b>604</b> (percentages, fractions, decimals) may be used with system <b>800</b>. Also, any of the different symbols and area or ring arrangements discussed above in connection with wheel <b>100</b>, <b>200</b>, <b>300</b>, <b>400</b> or <b>500</b> may be used in connection with wheel <b>810</b>.

Here, unlike with wheel <b>710</b>, system <b>800</b> includes a shared outcome display or wheel <b>810</b>, which shows credit symbols <b>606</b>, multiplier symbols <b>612</b> and free spin symbols <b>616</b> shown above in connection with wheel <b>600</b>. Credit symbols <b>606</b>, multiplier symbols <b>612</b> and free spin symbols <b>616</b> are not apportioned or based on an available amount. The multipliers <b>612</b> as before can multiply any suitable base game quantity, such as total credits, total credits previously wagered, total credits won, total paylines played, total wager per payline, etc.

Additionally, wheel <b>810</b> shows jackpot or available amount symbols <b>802</b> and buster or pooper symbols <b>804</b>. As illustrated, wheel <b>810</b> includes eleven sections <b>812</b><i>a </i>to <b>812</b><i>k</i>. A same number of gaming devices <b>10</b><i>a </i>to <b>10</b><i>k </i>is provided in system <b>800</b>. In an alternative embodiment, wheel <b>810</b> includes more sections <b>812</b> (referring collectively to sections <b>812</b><i>a </i>to <b>812</b><i>k</i>) than gaming devices <b>10</b>. Alternatively, wheel <b>810</b> can include less sections <b>812</b> than gaming devices <b>10</b>.

Wheel <b>810</b> can be: (i) substantially horizontally disposed with gaming devices <b>10</b><i>a </i>to <b>10</b><i>k </i>spaced in roughly equal increments about shared display <b>810</b>; (ii) at least substantially vertically disposed with gaming devices <b>10</b> provided in a semicircle about the vertically disposed wheel; or (iii) a large rotating reel or drum with a separate indicator. Overhead displays <b>70</b><i>a </i>to <b>70</b><i>c </i>are again located above wheel <b>810</b> and are provided in any suitable number and size so that each of the players system <b>800</b> can see at least one of overhead displays <b>70</b><i>a </i>to <b>70</b><i>c. </i>

For reference, each of the constituent gaming devices <b>10</b><i>a </i>to <b>10</b><i>k </i>in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 15</figref> shows coin slot <b>12</b> and bill acceptor <b>14</b>, display device <b>30</b>, <b>32</b>, reels <b>34</b> (simulated or electromechanical), credit display <b>16</b>, play button <b>20</b>, bet one button <b>24</b> and cash out button <b>26</b>. Gaming devices <b>10</b><i>a </i>to <b>10</b><i>k </i>can be of the low-profile type or otherwise as described above. Any of the wagering games described herein are suitable for system <b>800</b>, such as, slot, poker, keno and/or blackjack. Each gaming device <b>10</b><i>a </i>to <b>10</b><i>k </i>includes a combination hand pay/shared display indicator <b>60</b><i>a </i>to <b>60</b><i>k</i>, respectively, as described above. Here, however, indicators <b>60</b><i>a </i>to <b>60</b><i>k </i>indicate awards or award amounts, such as a symbol representing the available amount, but not apportioning symbols <b>604</b>, such as percentages.

In system <b>800</b>, display device <b>30</b>, <b>32</b> of each of gaming devices <b>10</b><i>a </i>to <b>10</b><i>k </i>include an apportioning wheel or outcome display <b>850</b><i>a </i>to <b>850</b><i>k</i>, respectively. Apportioning wheels <b>850</b><i>a </i>to <b>850</b><i>k </i>each include multiple sections <b>852</b>. Sections <b>852</b> each display an apportioning symbol <b>604</b>, such as a percentage, fraction or decimal. Apportioning wheels <b>850</b><i>a </i>to <b>850</b><i>k </i>each include an indicator <b>854</b> configured to indicate one of the apportioning symbols <b>604</b>. Wheels <b>850</b><i>a </i>to <b>850</b><i>k </i>in an embodiment are simulated and displayed in place of reels <b>34</b> as needed to conserve space. Alternatively, wheels or reels <b>850</b><i>a </i>to <b>850</b><i>k </i>are electromechanical entities separate from the reels <b>34</b> or other type of base game apparatus.

As above, each gaming device <b>10</b><i>a </i>to <b>10</b><i>k </i>includes an individual processor <b>38</b>, which is configured in a client-server communication relationship via a link <b>822</b> with a separate processor or server <b>820</b>. Server <b>820</b> controls via link <b>822</b> the shared wheel <b>810</b> and one or more large overhead displays <b>70</b>. Server <b>820</b> communicates information (any type described above) back and forth between the displays <b>70</b> and gaming devices <b>10</b> and information back and forth between wheel <b>810</b> and gaming devices <b>10</b> for messaging, updating credits and tracking play as described above. Separate server <b>820</b> runs one or more ROG programs, which determines the random outcomes displayed by shared display <b>810</b>. In one embodiment, the ROG program is independent of any run by processors <b>38</b> of individual gaming devices <b>10</b>.

As before, server <b>820</b> knows the fixed relationship between each of the symbols of the sections <b>812</b>. In the illustrated example, server <b>820</b> is programmed to know that the jackpot symbol <b>802</b> shown in section <b>812</b><i>d </i>is located one section clockwise from the twenty credit symbol <b>606</b> shown in section <b>812</b><i>c</i>, which is located one section clockwise from the 2× multiplier symbol <b>612</b> shown in section <b>812</b><i>b</i>, which in turn is located one section clockwise from the buster symbol <b>804</b> shown in section <b>812</b><i>a</i>, and so on.

It should therefore be appreciated that if server <b>820</b> generates one of the symbols randomly for gaming device <b>10</b><i>a</i>, for example, the fixed relationship between the symbols enables server <b>820</b> to know the symbols generated randomly for each of gaming devices <b>10</b><i>b </i>to <b>10</b><i>k </i>also. That is, if the ROG program of server <b>820</b> generates buster symbol <b>804</b> randomly for gaming device <b>10</b><i>a</i>, the ROG program server <b>720</b> also generates: (i) the 2× multiplier for gaming device <b>10</b><i>b </i>randomly, (ii) the twenty credits for gaming device <b>10</b><i>c </i>randomly, (iii) the jackpot symbol <b>802</b> for gaming device <b>10</b><i>d </i>randomly, and (iv) the ten credits for gaming device <b>10</b><i>e </i>randomly, and so on.

In operation, one or more triggering event sets wheel <b>810</b> in motion. For example, one of the gaming devices <b>10</b> may trigger a bonus, which causes processor <b>38</b> of that machine <b>10</b> to send a signal via link <b>822</b> to server <b>820</b>. Server <b>820</b> in turn commands wheel <b>810</b> to rotate. Server <b>820</b> in an embodiment also updates overhead displays <b>70</b> to show video and/or audio information informing each of the players playing system <b>800</b> that a bonus has been hit and wheel <b>810</b> is about to rotate. Displays <b>70</b> can inform which of the gaming devices has triggered the bonus. Also, indicator <b>60</b> associated with the triggering gaming device can be lit or flashed.

Assuming gaming device <b>10</b><i>k </i>triggers the bonus, for example, processor <b>38</b> of gaming device <b>10</b><i>k </i>sends a signal along link <b>822</b> to server <b>820</b>. Processor <b>38</b> also causes display device <b>30</b>, <b>32</b> (and/or speakers <b>36</b>) of gaming device <b>10</b><i>k </i>to display wheel <b>850</b><i>k </i>and inform the player of gaming device <b>10</b><i>k </i>that the player has reached the shared wheel bonus. Server <b>820</b> updates overhead displays <b>70</b> and causes a motor or other motion control device located beneath wheel <b>810</b> to rotate the wheel. Wheel <b>810</b> rotates in a predefined or randomly defined manner until it stops. At that point, whichever symbol is located adjacent to indicator <b>60</b><i>k </i>of gaming device <b>10</b><i>k </i>is used to determine, at least in part, the bonus award provided to the player.

If the symbol is a credit symbol <b>606</b>, the player receives the number of credits. If the symbol is an apportioning symbol <b>604</b>, server <b>820</b> in one embodiment sends a message to processor <b>38</b> of gaming device <b>10</b><i>k </i>to spin wheel <b>850</b><i>k </i>to generate an apportioning symbol <b>604</b>. Server <b>820</b> may also send the available amount of the jackpot award <b>802</b> to processor <b>38</b>. Alternatively, processor <b>38</b> may already know such amount. Alternatively, only server <b>820</b> may know the available amount.

Once processor <b>38</b> of gaming device <b>10</b><i>k </i>generates and displays the apportioning symbol <b>604</b> (which may alternatively or additionally be displayed on any one or more of overhead displays <b>70</b>): (i) the apportioning percentage is sent to server <b>820</b>, which multiplies the available amount by the percentage to determine the award for the player of gaming device <b>10</b><i>k</i>; or (ii) processor <b>38</b> multiplies the available amount by the percentage to determine the award for the player of gaming device <b>10</b><i>k</i>, which may or may not be sent to server <b>820</b> to display on any one or more of overhead displays <b>70</b>.

In the illustrated embodiment, section <b>812</b><i>k </i>stops in front of gaming device <b>10</b><i>k </i>and its associated indicator <b>60</b><i>k</i>. Section <b>812</b><i>k </i>shows the jackpot symbol <b>802</b>, which indicates that the player will receive a portion of the jackpot or available amount. Wheel <b>850</b><i>k </i>of gaming device <b>10</b><i>k </i>spins, wherein indicator <b>854</b> indicates an apportioning symbol <b>604</b> of, for example 60%. That apportioning symbol 60% is multiplied by an available amount (e.g., $1000 shown on overhead displays <b>70</b>, shared display <b>810</b> and/or on display devices <b>30</b>, <b>32</b> of gaming devices <b>10</b>) to form an award of $600 that is updated on credit meter <b>16</b> of gaming device <b>10</b><i>k</i>. A player can cash out via button <b>26</b> and retrieve the award or continue playing with its proceeds.

In the embodiment just described, gaming device <b>10</b><i>k </i>determines the apportioning percentage after receiving the jackpot apportioning symbol <b>802</b> from the shared wheel bonus spin. In alternative embodiments, any one or more or all of the apportioning wheels <b>850</b><i>a </i>to <b>850</b><i>k </i>of gaming devices <b>10</b><i>a </i>to <b>10</b><i>k</i>, respectively, determine their respective percentages before or simultaneously with the spinning of shared wheel <b>810</b>.

In one embodiment, if a single gaming device <b>10</b><i>a </i>to <b>10</b><i>k </i>triggers the bonus, only that gaming device receives any bonus award. In an alternative embodiment, any two or more or all gaming devices receive a bonus award even though only a single gaming device <b>10</b><i>a </i>to <b>10</b><i>k </i>has triggered the bonus condition. As described in detail above, the ability to pay more than one or all of the gaming devices <b>10</b> is made possible by varying the likelihood of triggering the bonus, the available amount and/or the percentages of apportioning symbols <b>604</b>.

Wheel <b>810</b> as illustrated is configured such that if all gaming devices <b>10</b><i>a </i>to <b>10</b><i>k </i>are awarded from the shared display bonus, only two gaming devices receive the apportioned jackpot award, two gaming devices receive multiplier awards, three gaming devices receive outright credit awards, two gaming devices receive free spins and two gaming devices receive the buster symbol or no award. Wheel <b>810</b> is alternatively configured to have any desirable relative amount of: (i) at least one jackpot symbol <b>802</b> or all jackpot symbols; (ii) none, one or more buster symbols <b>804</b>; (iii) none, one or more credit symbols <b>606</b>; (iv) none, one or more multiplier symbols <b>612</b>; and (iv) none, one or more free spin symbols <b>616</b>.

In one embodiment, the available amount is a progressive amount as has been described above. The progressive amount keeps building until one of the gaming devices triggers the bonus. Here, the available amount can vary from one bonus to the next. The frequency of hitting the bonus controls the size of the available amount.

In one embodiment, if the total possible award provided upon a spin of individual game wheels <b>850</b><i>a </i>to <b>850</b><i>k </i>is less than or equal to the progressive amount (for example when (i) only the triggering player receives an award and the highest percentage on the player's wheel <b>850</b> (referring generally to one of the wheels <b>850</b><i>a </i>to <b>850</b><i>k</i>) is equal to or less than 100% or (ii) multiple players win but total possible percentage from multiple wheels <b>850</b> is equal to or less than 100%), no additional funds are needed to pay for the bonus and bonus trigger hit frequency need not be considered in the overall payback equation.

If the total possible award provided upon a spin of one or more wheel <b>850</b> can possibly be greater than the progressive amount (for example when (i) only the triggering player receives an award and the highest percentage on the gaming device wheel <b>850</b> is greater than 100% or (ii) multiple players win and total percentage from wheels <b>850</b> is potentially greater than 100%), additional funds may be needed to pay for the bonus.

In one example, a progressive available amount is built by accumulating 10% of each wager of each wager. Overall bonus trigger hit frequency is relatively low and the percentages on each wheel <b>850</b> average at least approximately (1/number of participating gaming devices) times 100%. Shared wheel <b>810</b> is structured such that each player or multiple players win a portion of the progressive amount as it exists at the time any gaming device <b>10</b> triggers the bonus. Here, the game is exciting because each player can expect a bonus award after each and every spin of shared wheel <b>810</b>.

As with system <b>700</b>, it is possible that some of the available amount will not be awarded upon a bonus spin of shared wheel <b>810</b>. This can happen for example when: (i) only a single player wins and at least one of the percentages on the player's wheel <b>850</b> is less than 100%; and (ii) multiple players can win and obtain a total percentage from participating wheels <b>850</b> adding to less than 100%.

In one embodiment discussed above, the portion of the available amount not awarded to one or more player in one progressive embodiment is left in the pool as the starting point for the next progressive available amount. Likewise, the portion of the available amount not awarded to one or more player in one fixed amount embodiment can be added to the fixed amount for the next available amount. Further, the portion of the available amount not awarded to one or more player in a randomly determined available amount embodiment can be added to the randomly determined amount for the next available amount. Still further, the house can keep a portion or all of any unused or non-paid portion of the available amount.

As discussed previously, in one embodiment only active gaming devices are eligible for winning a portion of the available amount in one embodiment. In an alternative embodiment described above with system <b>700</b>, and in a situation in which the percentages collectively are equal to or less than 100%, it is contemplated to distribute any portion of the amount generated for non-active machines to the active machines based on the relative differences in the percentages generated for each of the gaming devices to guaranteed that the available amount is paid out completely upon a spin of wheels <b>810</b> and <b>850</b>.

As with system <b>700</b>, it is also possible in system <b>800</b> that multiple players achieve the bonus trigger within a relatively short timeframe. Here, the bonus spinning of wheels <b>810</b> and <b>850</b> can run consecutively for each player. Alternatively, a single spin of shared wheels <b>810</b> and <b>850</b> is made to generate an apportioned award for each player who has triggered the bonus according to the '239 application.

In one embodiment a player achieves a bonus triggering symbol in base game play, which triggers the shared display bonus and the spinning of shared wheel <b>810</b> and individual wheel(s) <b>850</b>. It is also contemplated to trigger the shared wheel bonus: (i) via a random generation of a triggering condition by server <b>820</b>; (ii) after a specified amount of game play by one or more of the players; and (iii) via a combination of base game results from the gaming devices played by the first and second players. Depending upon the mode of triggering used, the shared display <b>810</b> may result in apportioned awards for a single player, select multiple players or all active players.

Referring now to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 17</figref>, another embodiment of a multi-player system employing any one of the wheel embodiments disclosed herein is shown by system <b>900</b> having a shared wheel <b>910</b>. For ease of illustration, system <b>900</b> is shown using the apportioning symbols <b>604</b> of wheel <b>600</b>. Any of the types of apportioning symbols <b>604</b> (percentages, fractions, decimals) may be used with system <b>900</b>. Also, any of the different symbols and area or ring arrangements discussed above in connection with wheel <b>100</b>, <b>200</b>, <b>300</b>, <b>400</b> or <b>500</b> may be used in connection with wheel <b>910</b>.

Here, unlike with wheels <b>710</b> and <b>810</b>, system <b>900</b> includes a shared outcome display or wheel <b>910</b>, which has credit symbols <b>606</b>, multiplier symbols <b>612</b> and free spin symbols <b>616</b> in an outer generation ring. Credit symbols <b>606</b>, multiplier symbols <b>612</b> and free spin symbols <b>616</b> are not apportioned or based on an available amount. The multipliers <b>612</b> as before can multiply any suitable base game quantity, such as total credits, total credits previously wagered, total credits won, total paylines played, total wager per payline, etc. Additionally, the outer ring of wheel <b>910</b> shows jackpot or available amount symbols <b>802</b> and buster or pooper symbols <b>804</b>.

Wheel <b>910</b> also includes an inner generation ring having apportioning symbols <b>604</b> (and potentially only apportioning symbols <b>604</b>) and possibly one or more credit symbol <b>606</b>, multiplier symbol <b>612</b> and free spin symbol <b>616</b>. The outer and inner rings operate independently with respect to each other as described above in connection with wheel <b>500</b> and <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 13</figref>.

As illustrated, the inner ring of wheel <b>910</b> includes eleven sections <b>912</b><i>a </i>to <b>912</b><i>k</i>. The outer ring of wheel <b>910</b> includes eleven sections <b>914</b><i>a </i>to <b>914</b><i>k</i>. A same number of gaming devices <b>10</b><i>a </i>to <b>10</b><i>k </i>is provided in system <b>900</b>. In an alternative embodiment, wheel <b>910</b> includes more sections <b>912</b> and <b>914</b> (referring collectively to sections <b>912</b><i>a </i>to <b>912</b><i>k </i>and <b>914</b><i>a </i>to <b>914</b><i>k</i>, respectively) than gaming devices <b>10</b>. Alternatively, wheel <b>910</b> can include less sections <b>912</b> and <b>914</b> than gaming devices <b>10</b>.

Wheel <b>910</b> can be: (i) substantially horizontally disposed with gaming devices <b>10</b><i>a </i>to <b>10</b><i>k </i>spaced in roughly equal increments about shared display <b>910</b>; (ii) at least substantially vertically disposed with gaming devices <b>10</b> provided in a semicircle about the vertically disposed wheel; or (iii) a large rotating reel or drum with a separate indicator. Overhead displays <b>70</b><i>a </i>to <b>70</b><i>c </i>are again located above wheel <b>910</b> and are provided in any suitable number and size so that each of the players system <b>900</b> can see at least one of overhead displays <b>70</b><i>a </i>to <b>70</b><i>c. </i>

For reference, each of the constituent gaming devices <b>10</b><i>a </i>to <b>10</b><i>k </i>in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 15</figref> shows coin slot <b>12</b> and bill acceptor <b>14</b>, display device <b>30</b>, <b>32</b>, reels <b>34</b> (simulated or electromechanical), credit display <b>16</b>, play button <b>20</b>, bet one button <b>24</b> and cash out button <b>26</b>. Gaming devices <b>10</b><i>a </i>to <b>10</b><i>k </i>can be of the low-profile type or otherwise as described above. Any of the wagering games described herein are suitable for system <b>900</b>, such as, slot, poker, keno and/or blackjack. Each gaming device <b>10</b><i>a </i>to <b>10</b><i>k </i>includes a combination hand pay/shared display indicator <b>60</b><i>a </i>to <b>60</b><i>k</i>, respectively, as described above. Here, however, indicators <b>60</b><i>a </i>to <b>60</b><i>k </i>indicate awards or award amounts, such as a symbol representing the available amount, and also the apportioning symbols <b>604</b>, such as percentages.

Server <b>920</b> knows the fixed relationship between each of the symbols of each of the rings of sections <b>912</b> and <b>914</b>. In the illustrated example, server <b>920</b> is programmed to know that in the outer ring: (i) the jackpot symbol <b>802</b> shown in section <b>914</b><i>d </i>is located one section clockwise from the twenty credit symbol <b>606</b> shown in section <b>914</b><i>c</i>; (ii) which is located one section clockwise from the 2× multiplier symbol <b>612</b> shown in section <b>914</b><i>b</i>; (iii) which in turn is located one section clockwise from the buster symbol <b>804</b> shown in section <b>914</b><i>a</i>, and so on.

Furthermore, in the illustrated example, server <b>920</b> is programmed to know that in the inner ring: (i) the 40% apportioning symbol <b>604</b> shown in section <b>912</b><i>d </i>is located one section clockwise from the 90% apportioning symbol <b>604</b> shown in section <b>912</b><i>c</i>; (ii) which is located one section clockwise from the 100 credit symbol <b>606</b> shown in section <b>912</b><i>b</i>; (iii) which in turn is located one section clockwise from the 10% apportioning symbol <b>604</b> shown in section <b>912</b><i>a</i>, and so on.

It should therefore be appreciated that if server <b>920</b> generates one of the symbols randomly for gaming device <b>10</b><i>a</i>, for example, the fixed relationship between the symbols of the rings enables server <b>920</b> to know the like symbols generated randomly for each of gaming devices <b>10</b><i>b </i>to <b>10</b><i>k </i>also. That is, if for the outer ring the ROG program of server <b>920</b> generates buster symbol <b>804</b> randomly for gaming device <b>10</b><i>a</i>, the ROG program server <b>920</b> also generates: (i) the 2× multiplier for gaming device <b>10</b><i>b </i>randomly, (ii) the twenty credits for gaming device <b>10</b><i>c </i>randomly, (iii) the jackpot symbol <b>802</b> for gaming device <b>10</b><i>d </i>randomly, and (iv) the ten credits for gaming device <b>10</b><i>e </i>randomly, and so on.

Further, if for the inner ring the ROG program of server <b>920</b> generates the 10% apportioning symbol <b>604</b> randomly for gaming device <b>10</b><i>a</i>, the ROG program server <b>920</b> also generates: (i) 100 credits for gaming device <b>10</b><i>b </i>randomly, (ii) the 90% symbol for gaming device <b>10</b><i>c </i>randomly, (iii) the 40% symbol for gaming device <b>10</b><i>d </i>randomly, and (iv) the 70% symbol for gaming device <b>10</b><i>e </i>randomly, and so on.

In operation, one or more triggering event sets wheel <b>910</b> in motion. For example, one of the gaming devices <b>10</b> may trigger a bonus, which causes processor <b>38</b> of that machine <b>10</b> to send a signal via link <b>922</b> to server <b>920</b>. Server <b>920</b> in turn commands wheel <b>910</b> to rotate. Server <b>920</b> in an embodiment also updates overhead displays <b>70</b> to show video and/or audio information informing each of the players playing system <b>900</b> that a bonus has been hit and wheel <b>910</b> is about to rotate. Displays <b>70</b> can inform which of the gaming devices has triggered the bonus. Also, indicator <b>60</b> associated with the triggering gaming device can be lit or flashed.

Assuming gaming device <b>10</b><i>d </i>triggers the bonus, for example, processor <b>38</b> of gaming device <b>10</b><i>d </i>sends a signal along link <b>822</b> to server <b>920</b>. Processor <b>38</b> also causes display device <b>30</b>, <b>32</b> (and/or speakers <b>36</b>) of gaming device <b>10</b><i>d </i>to inform the player of gaming device <b>10</b><i>d </i>that the player has reached the shared wheel bonus. Server <b>920</b> updates overhead displays <b>70</b> and causes a motor or other motion control device located beneath wheel <b>910</b> to rotate the wheel. Wheel <b>910</b> (and wheels <b>710</b> and <b>810</b>) is alternatively simulated on a large one or more video monitor. In any event, the rings of wheel <b>910</b> rotates independently in a suitable defined manner until they stop. At that point, whichever sections <b>912</b> and <b>914</b> are located adjacent to indicator <b>60</b><i>d </i>of gaming device <b>10</b><i>d </i>is used to determine, at least in part, the bonus award provided to the player.

If the symbol in the outer ring is a credit symbol <b>606</b>, the player receives the number of credits modified potentially by an apportioning symbol <b>604</b> or a multiplier symbol <b>612</b>. If the symbol in the outer ring is a jackpot symbol <b>802</b>, the player receives the available amount of the jackpot modified potentially by an apportioning symbol <b>604</b> or a multiplier symbol <b>612</b>. In an embodiment, sections <b>912</b> of the inner ring only display apportioning symbols <b>604</b> so that any corresponding credit amount is lessened or held the same (if symbol <b>604</b> is 100%). The inner and outer rings in an embodiment does not display free spin symbols <b>616</b> or multiplier symbols <b>612</b> to avoid having to potentially provide a portion of a free spin or multiplier. However, it is contemplated to set the number free spins and the multipliers such that the may be evenly divisible by any displayed apportioning symbol <b>604</b>, in which case the player receives the portioned spins or multiplier.

After the wheel <b>910</b> displays the symbols of the inner an outer reels and server <b>920</b> calculates the player's award and sends the award to the appropriate game processor <b>38</b>. In the illustrated embodiment, sections <b>912</b><i>d </i>and <b>914</b><i>d </i>stop in front of gaming device <b>10</b><i>d </i>and its associated indicator <b>60</b><i>d</i>. Section <b>914</b><i>d </i>shows the jackpot symbol <b>802</b>, which indicates that the player will receive a portion of the jackpot or available amount. Section <b>912</b><i>d </i>indicates the apportioning symbol <b>604</b> of 40%. That apportioning symbol 40% is multiplied by an available amount (e.g., $1000 shown on overhead displays <b>70</b>, shared display <b>910</b> and/or on display devices <b>30</b>, <b>32</b> of gaming devices <b>10</b>) to form an award of $400 that is updated on credit meter <b>16</b> of gaming device <b>10</b><i>d. </i>

In the embodiment just described, wheel <b>910</b> spins inner and outer rings at least substantially simultaneously. In alternative embodiments, wheel <b>910</b> spins one of inner and outer rings partially or completely before spinning the other.

In one embodiment, if a single gaming device <b>10</b><i>a </i>to <b>10</b><i>k </i>triggers the bonus, only that gaming device receives any bonus award. In an alternative embodiment, any two or more or all gaming devices receive a bonus award even though only a single gaming device <b>10</b><i>a </i>to <b>10</b><i>k </i>has triggered the bonus condition. As described in detail above, the ability to pay more than one or all of the gaming devices <b>10</b> is made possible by varying the likelihood of triggering the bonus, the available amount and/or the percentages of apportioning symbols <b>604</b>.

The outer ring of section <b>914</b> of wheel <b>910</b> as illustrated is configured such that if all gaming devices <b>10</b><i>a </i>to <b>10</b><i>k </i>are awarded from the shared display bonus, only two gaming devices receive the apportioned jackpot award <b>802</b>. The outer ring of section <b>914</b> of wheel <b>910</b> is alternatively configured to have any desirable relative amount of: (i) at least one jackpot symbol <b>802</b> or all jackpot symbols; (ii) none, one or more buster symbols <b>804</b>; (iii) none, one or more credit symbols <b>606</b>; (iv) none, one or more multiplier symbols <b>612</b>; and (iv) none, one or more free spin symbols <b>616</b>.

In one embodiment, the available amount is a progressive amount as has been described above. The progressive amount keeps building until one of the gaming devices triggers the bonus. Here, the available amount can vary from one bonus to the next. The frequency of hitting the bonus controls the size of the available amount.

In one embodiment, if the total possible award provided upon a spin of the rings of wheel <b>910</b> is less than or equal to the progressive amount (for example when (i) only the triggering player receives an award and the highest percentage on the inner ring wheel is equal to or less than 100% or (ii) multiple players win but total possible percentage the inner ring is equal to or less than 100%), no additional funds are needed to pay for the bonus and bonus trigger hit frequency need not be considered in the overall payback equation.

In one embodiment, if the total possible award provided upon a spin of the inner ring of wheel <b>910</b> can possibly be greater than the progressive amount (for example when (i) only the triggering player receives an award and the highest percentage on the inner ring of wheel <b>910</b> greater than 100% or (ii) multiple players win and total percentage from the inner ring is potentially greater than 100%), additional funds may be needed to pay for the bonus.

In one example, a progressive available amount is built from a starting amount by accumulating 1% of each wager of each wager. Overall bonus trigger hit frequency is relatively low and the percentages on the inner ring of wheel <b>910</b> total 100%. Shared wheel <b>910</b> is thereby structured such that each player or multiple players win a portion of the progressive amount as it exists at the time any gaming device <b>10</b> triggers the bonus. Here, the game is exciting because each player can expect a bonus award after each and every spin of shared wheel <b>910</b>.

As with systems <b>700</b> and <b>800</b>, it is possible that some of the available amount will not be awarded upon a bonus spin of shared wheel <b>910</b>. This can happen for example when: (i) only a single player wins and at least one of the percentages on the inner ring of sections <b>912</b> on wheel <b>910</b> is less than 100%; and (ii) multiple players can win and obtain a total percentage from the inner ring of sections <b>912</b> on wheel <b>910</b> less than 100%.

In one embodiment discussed above, the portion of the available amount not awarded to one or more player in one progressive embodiment is left in the pool as the starting point for the next progressive available amount. Likewise, the portion of the available amount not awarded to one or more player in one fixed amount embodiment can be added to the fixed amount for the next available amount. Further, the portion of the available amount not awarded to one or more player in a randomly determined available amount embodiment can be added to the randomly determined amount for the next available amount. Still further, the house can keep a portion or all of any unused or non-paid portion of the available amount.

As discussed previously, in one embodiment only active gaming devices are eligible for winning a portion of the available amount in one embodiment. In an alternative embodiment described above with systems <b>700</b> and <b>800</b>, and in a situation in which the percentages collectively are equal to or less than 100%, it is contemplated to distribute any portion of the amount generated for non-active machines to the active machines based on the relative differences in the percentages generated for each of the gaming devices to guaranteed that the available amount is paid out completely upon a spin of wheel <b>910</b>.

As with systems <b>700</b> and <b>800</b>, it is also possible in system <b>900</b> that multiple players achieve the bonus trigger within a relatively short timeframe. Here, the bonus spinning of the rings of wheel <b>910</b> can run consecutively for each player. Alternatively, a single spin of shared wheel <b>910</b> is made to generate an apportioned award for each player who has triggered the bonus according to the '404 application.

In one embodiment a player achieves a bonus triggering symbol in base game play, which triggers the shared display bonus and the spinning of shared wheel <b>910</b>. It is also contemplated to trigger the shared wheel bonus: (i) via a random generation of a triggering condition by server <b>920</b>; (ii) after a specified amount of game play by one or more of the players; and (iii) via a combination of base game results from the gaming devices played by the first and second players. Depending upon the mode of triggering used, the shared display <b>910</b> may result in apportioned awards for a single player, select multiple players or all active players.

It should be appreciated that in various embodiments, the percentage selected can be applied to a group of awards such as a plurality of progressive awards (or such as a multi-level progressive) and the percentage would be applied to one or more of such awards in the group to determine awards for one or more players of the gaming devices.

While the present invention is described in connection with what is presently considered to be the most practical and preferred embodiments, it should be appreciated that the invention is not limited to the disclosed embodiments, and is intended to cover various modifications and equivalent arrangements included within the spirit and scope of the claims. Modifications and variations in the present invention may be made without departing from the novel aspects of the invention as defined in the claims, and this application is limited only by the scope of the claims.